The University of Delaware's Institute for Public Administration (IPA) has appointed Mark Rucci (BA/MPA '15) as a Senior Fellow advising the Recover Delaware initiative on the role of entrepreneurial and startup ecosystems and digital platforms for inclusive economic and community development.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed and worsened systemic inequities among our communities," said Rucci. "I'm eager to support the work of Recover Delaware to clarify the root causes of these issues and follow through with thoughtful policymaking that will allow Delawareans to realize a more inclusive future."
Mr. Rucci is a social science researcher and policy professional with experience in state, national, and international government strategy and decision making. He is a former director at Revolution, a venture capital firm founded by AOL co-founder Steve Case that invests in innovative and disruptive startups all across the United States. As a member of the Rise of the Rest team at Revolution, Mark worked with policymakers, universities, investors, startups, corporations, media, and ecosystem builders to foster innovation and economic development and democratize access to capital in all parts of the country.
Mark earned a Master of Science degree from the International Inequalities Institute at The London School of Economics, and he graduated from the University of Delaware in 2015 with a B.A. in Public Policy and an M.P.A. with a focus in Policy Analysis. He also served as a Legislative Fellow in the Delaware House of Representatives on the House Education Committee. In recognition of his leadership, academic success, and community service, Mark received the Alexander J. Taylor Award as the Most Outstanding Male Graduate of the Class of 2015.
"Mark brings enthusiasm for Delaware, a commitment to addressing inequities, and experience supporting the development of innovative businesses and entrepreneurial regionswe're excited to partner on charting a successful and inclusive recovery for Delaware," said Troy Mix, IPA Associate Director and Recover Delaware lead.
Launched in July 2020, Recover Delaware leverages IPA's public policy expertise and partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders to stimulate conversation, planning, and action for Delaware's recovery from the economic, public health, and social impacts of the COVID-19 crisis.
To explore Recover Delaware partnership opportunities or request support with your organization's recovery efforts, contact Troy Mix (mix@udel.edu; 302-831-6191).
