Presidential Tenure

Dr. Rivera assumed the presidency of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology on October 1, 2020. As President, he leads Pennsylvania’s nationally recognized public two-year technical college, preparing students for high-demand careers in skilled trades and technical fields. 

Under his leadership, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has reached record enrollment, driving major campus expansion projects such as new residence halls and community learning centers. These investments allow the College to serve more students while maintaining its hands-on, career-focused approach. 

At the center of his presidency is a commitment to economic mobility for students from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds, fully aligned with the College’s mission to provide affordable, high-impact technical education with a variety of career pathway options that lead directly to thriving next steps.

As quickly as we can build and expand our programs, we’re able to fill them.

Pedro A. Rivera II, Ed.D.

Recognition and National Leadership Development

Dr. Rivera’s leadership has been recognized at the state and national levels. 

• City + State PA: Higher Education Trailblazers (2024)
• City + State PA: Labor Power 100 (2025)

Dr. Rivera was also a Presidential Fellow with the Aspen Institute for the 2024/2025 school year. 

Statewide Leadership

Before joining Thaddeus Stevens College, Dr. Rivera served as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Education, appointed by Governor Tom Wolf and unanimously confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate. 

In this cabinet-level role, he focused on restoring equitable school funding, expanding early childhood education, strengthening career and technical education, and improving college and workforce readiness. He also served as President of the Board of Directors for the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), supporting collaboration among state education leaders nationwide.

Transforming Urban Education

As Superintendent of the School District of Lancaster, Dr. Rivera led reforms that increased graduation rates, improved academic performance, bolstered financial stability, and expanded wraparound services through the community schools model. 

His leadership earned national recognition, including designation as a White House Champion of Change in 2014. 

Foundations in the Classroom

Dr. Rivera began his career in the School District of Philadelphia, serving as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and executive director. These early experiences shaped his commitment to inclusive, student-centered education. 

Board Leadership and Public Service

Dr. Rivera serves on numerous state, national, and community boards, including the Pennsylvania State Board of Education (Chair, Council of Higher Education), Aspen Institute initiatives, The Hunt Institute, the Saint Joseph’s University Board of Trustees, and several Lancaster-based organizations. 

Education and Lifelong Learning

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Rivera earned degrees from Pennsylvania State University, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Pennsylvania. 

Personal Roots

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Rivera is proud of his Puerto Rican heritage and now calls Lancaster home with his wife Erika and their children. His personal journey continues to inform his passion for expanding opportunities for underserved students.