Published on September 9, 2025 / Leer en español

media@grupocne.org

With a distinguished public service career in both Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., she becomes the first woman to lead CNE, opening a new chapter in the organization’s history 

(San Juan, September 9, 2025) – The Center for a New Economy (CNE) marks a historic milestone with the appointment of Rosanna Torres Pizarro as its new President, becoming the first woman to lead the organization in its 26-year history. Her appointment ushers in a new phase for CNE, one focused on expanding its impact on Puerto Rico’s economic development.

Torres Pizarro, who previously led CNE’s Washington, D.C. office, brings a distinguished track record in the federal government, including serving as the first Senior Advisor for Puerto Rico Affairs at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Her experience also includes key roles at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the U.S. House of Representatives, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the U.S. Census Bureau.

“CNE has long been a leader in shaping public policy in Puerto Rico. Now more than ever, we need clear ideas, rigorous data, and a deep commitment to the well-being of our people. I am honored to lead the organization in this new phase,” said Torres.

During her first tenure at CNE, Torres played a pivotal role in securing the permanent expansion of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit for Puerto Rico and increasing Medicaid funding—two initiatives that directly benefit hundreds of thousands of Puerto Rican families.

“My goal is to strengthen and expand CNE’s legacy by bringing new generations into the conversation and multiplying the reach of our proposals. But I do not take on this role alone. I’m guided by the wisdom and courage of someone who has been the heart of this organization since day one. It is an honor to follow in Mike’s footsteps and have him by my side as Chair of the Board in this new stage,” she added.

Miguel A. (Mike) Soto-Class will assume the role of Chair of the Board of Directors and will continue contributing his strategic vision to the organization. “This is a moment of great pride and joy for me. Rosanna embodies the values that have defined CNE since its founding: integrity, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the public good. I have complete confidence that under her leadership, CNE will reach new heights and continue shaping Puerto Rico’s future,” said Soto-Class.

The Center for a New Economy (CNE) is Puerto Rico’s leading independent, nonpartisan think tank, dedicated to advancing the development of a new economy for the island. With over 25 years of experience, CNE works to make Puerto Rico more productive and stable from its offices in San Juan and Washington, D.C. Through rigorous data analysis and the production of empirical research, CNE influences public policy debates and seeks solutions to the island’s most complex economic challenges. CNE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives no government funding and is supported by individual donors, private institutions, and philanthropic organizations.

With this leadership transition, CNE reaffirms its commitment to independence, rigorous analysis, and the transformation of Puerto Rico through sound ideas, in-depth research, and civic engagement.

Click here to learn what business, community, and public policy leaders have to say about Rosanna Torres and the experience she brings to her new role as President of the Center for a New Economy.