(John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of The Cruz Companies, introducing the gentrification panel in honor of Black History Month)
(Boston University Law Students, listening to panel on gentrification)
BOSTON- On Wednesday, February 5th 2020, John B. Cruz, III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies, presented on the panel for “Shifting Neighborhoods: Gentrification and Placemaking in Boston” at Boston University hosted by the Black Law Student Alliance (BLSA). The event drew local students, lawyers and professionals interested in the effects of gentrification and the meaningful improvements that could be made.
Mr. Cruz addressed the crowd with respect to new development and displacement. Panelists and guests engaged in dialogue about positive and negative effects of gentrification especially for low-income people of color and youth. Another topic of discussion was “Brain Drain Effect” describing the loss of local skill and talent.
“Cruz Companies is dedicated to combating the disadvantages that come with gentrification by limiting displacement and providing affordable new developments” said John B. Cruz III, President & CEO of the Cruz companies. “Cruz Companies for over 70 years, has been dedicated to giving back and investing locally. We have developed and managed affordable housing for thousands of families in Boston.”
The panel discussion was moderated by Nichole Beiner, a leadership and culture consultant who helps organizations create healthy, equitable cultures where their people can thrive. Panelists made brief remarks regarding their experience and expertise. Mr. Cruz was joined by Katherine Kennedy Director of The Howard Thurman Center; Professor Pelfrey Duryea Director of BU’s Compliance Policy Clinic; Henry Korman, Partner at Klein Hornig; and Sasha George, Honors Attorney at US Environmental Protection Agency.
About Cruz Companies: Cruz Companies has built a reputation for excellence in the fields of construction, development and management. One of the oldest and largest, minority-owned companies in the Northeast and a third-generation family business, Cruz is a modern firm that values old-fashioned quality and integrity. The John B. Cruz Construction Company is responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region; Cruz Development Corporation creates well designed, sustainable real estate developments, while maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, and maximizing the opportunity for minority owned companies and minority workers, and; Cruz Management Company, Inc. provides quality residential housing and services. Cruz Companies’ mission is giving back to the community in as many ways as possible. Cruz CARES (Community, Arts, Recreational and Educational Services) is Cruz Companies’ social responsibility arm, a non-profit organization that exists to help Boston’s urban community. For more information, please go to our website www.cruzcompanies.com
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