WORCESTER, MA – April 3, 2025 – As the official kickoff event of StartUp Week Worcester on April 7, Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) will announce the upcoming launch of the Auxilium Center for Entrepreneurship, a transformative new initiative made possible through the support of the Cliff and Susan Rucker Foundation.
The Auxilium Center for Entrepreneurship will serve as a hub of innovation, offering workshops, mentoring, consultation services and entrepreneurship-focused curriculum. It will be open to students across all disciplines, with an emphasis on inclusivity, opportunity and practical skill-building. The Cliff and Susan Rucker Foundation has committed $100,000 per year for a minimum of three years to help the Center hire a full-time director and establish a strong foundation for future growth.
“Entrepreneurship is about more than starting a business — it’s about believing in your ability to create something from the ground up. This Center will instill that belief and serve as a place where students can find the tools, mentorship and confidence to bring their ideas to life. We’re proud to support QCC in creating a space that demystifies entrepreneurship, makes launching a company achievable and connects students with what we’re doing at Auxilium — supporting startups, turning ideas into reality and helping businesses scale,” said founder of Auxilium and Rucker Investments Cliff Rucker.
Both organizations noted that in addition to providing resources and support, the Center will represent a deepened partnership between QCC and Auxilium, aligning the organizations’ shared vision of driving regional economic development, empowering students to pursue innovation and creating a pipeline of opportunity for aspiring founders.
“This partnership between QCC and Auxilium is a powerful investment in Worcester’s future. This generous support is more than just a donation—it is a commitment to innovation, economic growth and the dreams of aspiring business owners in our community. This is a clear demonstration that QCC is not just a college in Worcester, but Worcester’s college—deeply rooted in the success of our students, our workforce and our city. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant future for all,” said QCC Dr. President Luis G. Pedraja.
The Auxilium Center for Entrepreneurship will provide flexible programming to meet the needs of QCC’s diverse student population, including first-generation college students, working adults and aspiring entrepreneurs from underserved communities. It is set to open on QCC’s main campus in Fall 2025.