It’s been an impressive year for research initiatives on campus.
Considering the 108% increase in research funding, 56 new sponsored programs awarded, 130 faculty members submitting unique proposals, hundreds of journal articles and peer-reviewed presentations published and more, it’s no surprise.
Engagement in student research is up as well, with the Center for Student Research (CSR) increasing its member count to 371 students and 81 faculty mentors and the Undergraduate Research Academy (URA) accepting 24 new members.
“At UCCS, our dedication to research isn’t just our campus mission; it’s our heartbeat,” said Jessi L. Smith, Vice Provost & Associate Vice Chancellor for Research. “We stand out among Southern Colorado’s universities because our passion for discovery and creative work knows no bounds. Through sponsored programs, performances, publications, speaking engagements, and public scholarship, we’re not just building a reputation; we’re defining it.”
“But it’s not just about accolades – it’s about our students,” continued Smith. “Our Center for Student Research is offering students unparalleled scholarly experiences that ignite their curiosity and propel them towards greatness. Now in its third year of existence, the CSR is here to develop our next generation of scholars as they hone their skills, helping them make meaningful contributions to their fields, while learning firsthand an ethos of care and commitment to inclusivity.”
Several other measures in pursuit of strategic plan initiatives and an inclusive culture have been implemented as well. The Center for Research Frontiers in the Digital Humanities opened in spring and focuses on the expansion of access to the digital humanities and sharing technologies with students at no cost. The Office of Research established a Statistical Support Hub for faculty and expanded their personnel resources by adding an institutional grant writer to help support proposal efforts, while the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research Integrity has taken on a contract legal expert and second pre-award specialist.
The efforts don’t stop there, with the office also awarding 33 COVID-19 Revitalization Fellowships, continuing to share news and knowledge through the Distinguished Professor Lecture Series and Committee on Research and Creative Works (CRCW) Awardee talks and hosting several development opportunities including evidence-based grant writing bootcamps, virtual bootcamps and workshops while also providing faculty and student travel funding.
These successes still don’t cover the depth of work and effort put on by many for the past year. To learn more, check out the Office of Research viewbook and highlight infographic or Center for Student Research Report.
To help the Office of Research grow and support its expanding initiatives, consider making a contribution.