Dr. J.D. LaRock
President & CEO, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE)
Dr. J.D. LaRock is a nationally recognized leader in education policy, workforce innovation, and youth entrepreneurship. As President and CEO of NFTE (Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship), he oversees a global nonprofit that equips young people from under-resourced communities with the mindset and tools to build their own businesses and take control of their futures.
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting companies—it’s about transforming lives and communities through innovation and opportunity.“
– Dr. J.D. LaRock
With a career that spans higher education, public policy, and workforce development, Dr. LaRock has held senior leadership roles at Northeastern University, the Commonwealth Corporation, and in government—serving as education advisor to Senator Edward M. Kennedy and education policy director to Governor Deval Patrick. He was instrumental in shaping major national education legislation and securing over $250 million in federal funds for education innovation in Massachusetts.