The Daily News’ Catherine Lucey reports today that TU Alum Andrew Altman will lead the city’s Commerce Department. Altman had previously headed city planning in Washington D.C.

The Germantown native was quoted as saying the job was a “dream come true.” Altman was credited for his work on Washington D.C.’s convention center, and the development of specific neighborhood plans there.

Altman said he looks forward to guiding development along the Delaware River. He played an instrumental role in waterfront development during his time in D.C.

A graduate of SDP’s Parkway program, Altman holds a B.A. in Geography and Urban Studies from TU, as well as a Masters in City Planning from the Massachusets Institute of Technology.

Altman will earn $180,000 a year, more than is mandated by the city charter for Commerce Director. But like managing director Camille Barnett and Police Commisioner Charles Ramsey, he will also hold the title of Deputy Mayor.

“Andy’s resume is astounding,” Mayor Nutter said. “We are quite fortunate to have him here.”

Homecoming for Commerce Director (DN)

The Inquirer is reporting that Kent McGuire, (right) Dean of the College of Education, has withdrawn his name from consideration for CEO of the School District of Philadelphia.

“I just came to a judgment that there are lots of people who probably can do that CEO job,” McGuire told Susan Snyder this morning. “not as many who can do the job that I have right now, given where things are for the college.”

After reports yesterday that the District’s search committee was “underwhelmed” by the three candidates, some suggested that the process should be extended.

The two remaining candidates are Arlene Ackerman of the Columbia University Teacher’s College, and Leroy D. Nunery II, a former executive for Edison Schools, the private contractor responsible for some of Philadelphia’s schools.

Phila. Schools CEO Candidate Drops Out (Inquirer)