Joe Fratesi, Ph.D.
Project Director

Phone: 662-325-6703
Fax: 662-325-6709
Email: joe@sig.msstate.edu

Joe Fratesi is Project Director with the Stennis Institute at Mississippi State University (MSU). As Project Director, he is responsible for coordinating project and program activities related community and economic development, with special emphasis on those projects relating to land use and planning, local government, and community and workforce development.

For over 13 years Dr. Fratesi has been working in and with local communities throughout Mississippi and Tennessee. Prior to joining the Stennis Institute in 2010, Dr. Fratesi was Interim Director of the Mississippi State Community Action, a Governmental Training Specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, and a City Planner for the City of Germantown, TN.

Dr. Fratesi holds a B.S. degree in history, a Master's Degree in Public Policy and Administration, and a Ph.D. in Workforce Development, all awarded from Mississippi State University. He is an active volunteer and advocate for community planning and development in his own community, where he serves on numerous boards and committees.

He and his wife Sarah are the proud parents of two children and reside in Starkville, MS