2023 Robert S. Bowditch Economic Development Award

Cliff L. Rucker

The Worcester Business Development Corporation has named Cliff L. Rucker as the 2023 recipient of the Robert S. Bowditch Economic Development Award. This Award is given out annually by the WBDC at its Annual Meeting and is named after WBDC founder Robert S. Bowditch who served in many different capacities at the WBDC for over 32 years. Mr. Bowditch set a very high standard of expectations to define the success of the WBDC.

Cliff Rucker has clearly exceeded those expectations with bringing professional hockey back to Worcester, the development of the Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center, the recapitalization of Table Talk Pies, the saving and redevelopment of the Palladium on Main Street, the development of Off the Rails on Commercial Street and the revitalization of Mr. Bowditch’s cherished Central Exchange Building in the heart of the Central Business District. Cliff has made a substantial commitment to Worcester from a cultural, economic, and revitalization perspective that will benefit Worcester for years to come. The WBDC is proud and pleased to bestow this prestigious honor on Cliff L. Rucker.

Past Bowditch Award Recipients