The Association of Public Land-Grant Universities (APLU) this week announced 18 institutions across the United States made the 2015 Class of Innovation & Economic Prosperity Universities.
According to APLU, the designation acknowledges universities working with public and private sector partners in their states and regions to support economic development through a variety of activities, including innovation and entrepreneurship, technology transfer, talent and workforce development, and community development.
Related: University of Arizona contributes high ROI for state of Arizona
“The University of Arizona is not only a top-tier research institution but also an important economic engine for our state,” said Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. “The university’s recognition by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities underscores its value in both respects.”
UA News attributes their success to the early success of their Never Settle strategic plan, achievements of Tech Launch Arizona in technology innovation and commercialization and a focus on biomedical research and health care, including the Phoenix Biomedical Campus and the historic partnership agreement with Banner Health.
Related: Tech Parks Arizona celebrates 20 years and plans for 20 more
“This designation is a wonderful recognition of the success that the University of Arizona is having in translating our research into economic development, technology innovation and commercialization,” said UA President Ann Weaver Hart. “These are vitally important parts of our mission as Arizona’s land-grant university, and they are at the heart of the UA’s Never Settle strategic plan.
Read more university advancement coverage at AZTB
Contributions from APLU and UA News
