QCC president announces retirement plans
Quinsigamond Community College President Luis Pedraja plans to retire in 2027 after a decade leading the college. During his tenure, QCC expanded programs, strengthened partnerships and navigated enrollment shifts and pandemic-related challenges. The college will begin a search process for its next president.
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National Grid brings assistance events to Worcester
National Grid is holding a series of Worcester events to help residents learn about payment plans, discount programs and ways to manage summer energy costs. Representatives dish out some helpful info on bill assistance, budget billing and energy-efficiency programs.
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Preservation program prepares for next funding round
Worcester’s Community Preservation Committee is updating its preservation plan as it prepares for a third major funding cycle later this year. Since voters approved the Community Preservation Act, the program has awarded roughly $10.8 million to housing, recreation, environmental and historic preservation projects. Officials estimate the dedicated funding stream generates about $4.5 million annually for community projects.
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Weekend lineup ranges from Journey to jail records
This week’s five things to do include Journey’s return to the DCU Center, a behind-the-scenes look at historic jail records and several food-focused events around the city. The roundup also feature arts and cultural programs tied to Worcester’s history and creative community.
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Council revisits missing Arries Ann Ward tribute
City councilors are seeking answers about a tribute intended to honor longtime community advocate Arries Ann Ward. Questions emerged about the status of the recognition and why it has not moved forward as expected. Officials requested additional information as the city works to clarify what happened.
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Abby’s House celebrates five decades of service
Abby’s House marked its 50th anniversary by reflecting on its work supporting women and children facing homelessness, poverty and domestic violence. The Worcester organization has grown from a small shelter into a major provider of housing and support services. Leaders said the anniversary offered an opportunity to celebrate progress while recognizing ongoing community needs.
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School committee reviews aviation and student support programs
After extensive budget discussions, Worcester School Committee members turned their attention to aviation education, digital hall pass policies and student support initiatives. The meeting included updates on career pathways and efforts aimed at improving student engagement. Several policy items were advanced for additional review and discussion.
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Early College enrollment nearly doubles in Worcester
State education officials announced a major expansion of Massachusetts Early College programs during a visit to Worcester Technical High School. Worcester Public Schools increased participation from 714 students in 2023 to 1,362 students in 2026, making it one of the largest Early College districts in the state. The growth reflects increasing demand for opportunities that allow students to earn college credits before graduation.
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Southbridge program expands college-credit opportunities
A partnership between Southbridge Public Schools and Quinsigamond Community College is continuing to grow as more students earn college credits before graduating high school. School and college leaders say the program helps students reduce future tuition costs while exposing them to higher education earlier.
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Community Foundation marks 50 years with major investment
The Greater Worcester Community Foundation is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a one-time $2 million investment aimed at affordable housing, child care, food security, immigrant assistance and maternal health. The package includes $1.05 million in grants to local nonprofits and another $950,000 for new foundation-led initiatives. Foundation leaders described the funding as both a milestone celebration and an effort to address some of Worcester County’s most pressing needs.
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Budget review and immigrant student funding head to committee
The Worcester School Committee agenda included continued review of the district’s proposed budget along with discussion of immigrant student funding and school transitions. Officials examined how state and federal resources are being used to support multilingual learners and recently arrived students. Budget planning remains a central focus as the district prepares for the next fiscal year.
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Clark innovation challenge won by Worcester student
Clark University graduate student Sumanth Aitham earned first place in the university’s innovation challenge. His project focused on helping people navigate complex information and decision-making through technology. The competition highlights entrepreneurial ideas with potential real-world applications.
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UMass Chan graduates 270 students
UMass Chan Medical School awarded 270 degrees during commencement ceremonies led by Chancellor Michael Collins in his final graduation as chancellor. Graduates entered careers in medicine, nursing and biomedical sciences. The ceremony also marked a leadership transition for one of Worcester’s largest educational institutions.
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Budget, police headquarters and potholes crowd council agenda
Worcester city councilors faced a packed agenda that included budget questions, public safety facilities and road repair concerns. Discussions touched on long-term infrastructure needs and the future of a proposed police headquarters project. Potholes and road maintenance remained recurring themes as councilors reviewed city priorities.
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Seven city residents join correctional officer ranks
Fourteen recruits graduated from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office academy, including seven Worcester residents. The graduates completed months of training before joining correctional operations. Sheriff’s Office leaders highlighted the importance of recruiting officers from communities throughout the county.
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Worcester voices join statewide health summit
Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts President and CEO Amie Shei and Worcester RISE founder Dr. Olga Valdman are among participants in a statewide summit focused on access to care.

Organizers plan to address workforce shortages, health equity and barriers facing patients across Massachusetts. Worcester health leaders will contribute local perspectives to the discussions.
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City seeks feedback on military memorial plans
Worcester officials are gathering public input on proposed Purple Heart and Gold Star memorials planned for Worcester Common. A public hearing is scheduled to review designs and gather community feedback before final decisions are made. The memorials would recognize military service members and families who made significant sacrifices.
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Batista to deliver annual State of the City address
City Manager Eric Batista is scheduled to deliver Worcester’s annual State of the City address on June 17. The event provides an update on municipal priorities, finances and major projects underway across the city. Officials expect the address to focus on growth, infrastructure and future planning efforts.
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Worcester woman among victims in Virginia crash
A Worcester woman was among five people killed in a highway crash in Virginia. Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Family, friends and community members have been mourning the loss.
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Five Worcester artists earn summer residencies
Five Worcester artists have been selected for summer creative residencies at Holy Cross through a partnership involving the college, the city and the Worcester Cultural Coalition. The artists represent disciplines including dance, documentary film and visual arts. The residency program provides space, support and opportunities to develop new work.
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Curtis Apartments redevelopment reaches major milestone
One of Worcester’s largest affordable housing redevelopment efforts reached a significant benchmark with completion of its first 129 housing units. The project, formerly known as Curtis Apartments, is also preparing to unveil a new name. Developers say the work is part of a broader transformation intended to modernize housing while maintaining affordability.
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Have a story tip, community concern, or insight to share? Email Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org.  

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