Sandra C. Cano, former director of commerce for the city of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, has joined the U.S. Small Business Administration as administrator for the New England Region.
A former three-term state senator in Rhode Island, Cano has a long record of advancing economic development, championing small business growth and promoting diversity and equity.
“My commitment to advancing equity and expanding access to opportunities for all entrepreneurs will guide my work as we help strengthen our local economies and create a more inclusive future for small businesses across the region,” she said.
Born in Medellín, Colombia, Cano emigrated to the United States in 2000. She is a graduate of Bryant University and holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Rhode Island and executive leadership certifications from the Harvard Kennedy School.