Eric D. Batista, 36
Director
Office of Urban Innovation, City of Worcester
Residence: Worcester
Birthplace: Puerto Rico
Colleges: New England Institute of Technology, UMass Amherst & Assumption College
Batista helps the city look at best practices, lean management and overall efficiency, where his passion for data-driven analytics has helped Worcester complete its first modern strategic plan and develop the Office of Urban Innovation to boost customer services and save taxpayer money. His city government prowess has transformed him into somewhat of a mentor for young City Hall staffers. He has made an impact on urban youth, creating and developing the Urban Bound College Access Program in Southbridge, which he managed for five years with a budget of more than $1 million. Batista then oversaw the creation and development of the Worcester Youth Violence Prevention Initiative, which has helped reduce violence by bringing more than 70 organizations and 150 people together to raise more than $3 million to improve the life and safety of Worcester students. Batista volunteers on the boards of six different youth or Latino organizations, including Adelante Worcester, Governor’s State Latino Advisory Commission and YOU, Inc. – Profile written by Zachary Comeau
If you could travel for a year with any four people, who would it be? My wife Arianys – I have no choice with this one. Jesus – servant leadership. Jonn Snow – fearless leader. Alicia Keys – musical talent
Favorite local tourist attraction? Rota Springs. I love ice cream!
What would you say to an intern entering the government field? Be versatile and always find a way to get to a yes.
