Higher Education and Economic Development

Because of our work with colleges and universities across the country, we thought it might be useful to share what we see ahead in terms of higher education's role in economic development.

First, there is a great need for America's colleges and universities to give more attention to economic development issues. Many are. Unfortunately, financial resources to address this need at the present time do not exist in most states. You may find it interesting to read a recent speech by Akron University President Luis Proenza on the role of higher education in economic development. It identifies some of the current ways colleges and universities contribute and some ideas for the future. Click here to read Dr. Proenza's speech to the Cleveland City Club.

New state government investment in Ohio's colleges and universities is urged and it looks, at least for now, that Ohio Governor Bob Taft is listening. Taft's Third Frontier Fund is aiming to boast college and university research and technical support to Ohio businesses and industries. Check out the Ohio Third Frontier website.

Second, for a good example of how a major university supports economic development, we suggest that you take a look at what the University of Arizona's Office of Economic Development does to support economic development in Southern Arizona and elsewhere across the state. Click here to go to the U of A's Economic Development website. The U of A has done an exceptional job with its Science and Technology Park and its efforts to support industry and knowledge cluster development in Arizona.

Third, to learn more about the role played by community colleges in economic development, visit the American Association of Community College website. Community colleges nationwide are leaders in workforce and economic development.

Finally, want to know more about higher education, locate college and university websites or know other things about higher education issues? Visit the higher-ed.org website.

Stay tuned. We will be looking in more detail at how colleges and universities support economic development. Look for some future stories about our clients and what they are doing.