UMW Center for Economic Development to Open: Hurley

I am pleased to announce the establishment of UMW’s Center for Economic Development and its affiliation with the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance effective July 1. The primary role of the new Center, which includes UMW’s Small Business Development Center, will be to assist the regional jurisdictions in their efforts to promote economic development of the region. The Center will function as a central point of contact to connect our faculty and students, particularly those in the College of Business and in the economics department, with regional initiatives and businesses seeking their assistance. UMW’s faculty and students are already engaged in the region in multiple ways, but this “one-stop shop” approach to access their intellectual capital will further benefit the region and the Commonwealth through focused engagement and analysis.

I believe this initiative addresses at least two Goals in our Strategic Plan: Goal 6, which is designed to “Promote and Enhance Regional Engagement, Leadership and Service to the Public” and Goal 8, which is designed to “Strengthen the Image and Identity of the University of Mary Washington and Expand Visibility and Recognition of the Institution.”

Dr. Meta Braymer will oversee the new unit as Vice President for Economic Development and Regional Engagement and will continue her regional engagement responsibilities. The new Center will be established in Eagle Village during the fall semester.