Midland College Welcomes Gitsy Vásquez as Director of the Business & Economic Development CenterNovember 17, 2025

Midland College is proud to announce the appointment of Gitsy Vásquez as the new Director of the Business & Economic Development Center (BEDC), a collaborative initiative between Midland College and the City of Midland.

The BEDC provides free business, credit, and housing counseling, along with classes and workshops designed to help individuals improve credit scores, purchase homes, and start or expand businesses.Through these services, the center plays a vital role in supporting Midland’s economic growth by fostering entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and community success.

The Director of the BEDC is a grant-funded position that provides strategic leadership and oversight of the center’s operations, programs, and staff. The position also focuses on coordinating economic development initiatives, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the BEDC remains a trusted resource for business development, financial education, homeownership, and entrepreneurial training across the Permian Basin.

Vásquez brings more than five years of experience in business development, leadership, and strategic communication. A Venezuelan entrepreneur, communicator, and community leader, she holds a degree in Social Communication with a focus on Community Development and is a certified Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Trainer through the Maxwell Leadership Program.

Originally from Venezuela, Vásquez moved to the United States 10 years ago, where she built both her family and her career rooted in service and empowerment. Her connection to Midland College began years ago as an ESL student, a step that not only helped her build language skills but also opened doors to mentorship, professional growth, and a long-term relationship with the institution. Now returning as Director, her story illustrates the supportive environment Midland College strives to provide for students beginning their educational journey from abroad.

As the founder of Latinosocial, a community-based organization in West Texas, Vásquez has worked to promote leadership, education, and visibility for Hispanic entrepreneurs through workshops, networking events, and media initiatives. Her passion for connecting and uplifting others aligns closely with the BEDC’s mission.

“This role is more than a job,” said Vásquez. “It is a full-circle moment. Midland gave me the opportunity to grow as an immigrant, a professional, and a community leader. Now, through the BEDC at Midland College, I hope to help others turn their goals into real opportunities for success.”

Victoria Santiago Edwards, Dean of the Cogdell Learning Center and Community Engagement, said Vásquez’s vision and enthusiasm will be a strong asset to the BEDC and the community it serves.

“Gitsy’s leadership and passion for empowering others are exactly what the BEDC needs as it continues to expand its impact,” Edwards said. “Her ability to connect with people and build bridges will strengthen our community partnerships and help more individuals achieve financial and entrepreneurial success.”

For more information about the Midland College Business & Economic Development Center, visit www.midland.edu/bedc.