CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today created a task force charged with developing a strategic plan for retaining young, skilled workers in New Hampshire.

“It is our people - and the skills they have - that will ensure that New Hampshire’s economy continues to lead the nation,” Gov. Lynch said. “Our young people are vital to the future of our state’s economy, and we must do everything we can to keep their creativity and talents in New Hampshire.”

Between 2000 and 2005, the population of young people aged 21 to 34 increased 1 percent nationally. During that same period, New Hampshire’s population of young people decreased by 7 percent.

Gov. Lynch charged the task force with identifying barriers that prevent some young people from remaining in New Hampshire and developing a statewide strategic plan for retaining and recruiting young workers to the State of New Hampshire. A final plan must be submitted to the Governor no later than March 31, 2009.

The Task Force is comprised of representatives from the education, business and labor communities from across New Hampshire. It will be co-chaired by Gray Chynoweth of the Manchester Young Professionals Network and Chris Williams of the Nashua Young Professionals Network.

The New Hampshire College and University Council will provide staffing and support as the Task Force does its important work. Gov. Lynch’s executive order builds on a University System Initiative aimed at keeping 55 percent of the system’s graduates in New Hampshire.

The members of the Task Force are:

Graham Chynoweth, Co-Chair, Manchester Young Professionals Network
Chris Williams, Co-Chair, Nashua Young Professionals Network
Ashley Gibson, Cannan, Visiting Nurse Association of Vermont and NH
Nicholas J. Koloski, Claremont, Small Business Owner
Helen Donington, Seacoast Young Professionals Network
Jessica Clark, AFL-CIO
Steffani Adaska, Mount Washington Valley Young Professionals Network
Matt Cookson, University System of New Hampshire
Neil Giarratana, Keene Young Professionals Network
Stephanie Lesperance, NH College and University Council
Mark Desmarais, Community College System of NH
Rebecca Kinhan, Concord Young Professionals Network
Tom Daly, NH High Technology Council
Joe Murray, NH Business and Industry Association
Thom Kraus, NH Association of Chamber Executives
Mica Stark, New Boston, Outreach & Engagement Director for the Carsey Institute
Elizabeth Ignacio, Governor’s Office

Copies of the Executive Orders are listed on the Executive Order web page