To more effectively connect with all IU campuses and the communities they serve in carrying out its mission, the IU Office of Engagement has created, with the support of the President McRobbie, the Council for Regional Engagement and Economic Development (CREED). The establishment of this body creates a permanent structure and enduring forum within the university’s organizational framework in which regional economic concerns can be addressed. CREED plays an instrumental role in identifying, through ongoing dialogue, how IU can bring its resources to bear to enhance economic development efforts throughout the state.
While the convening of regularly scheduled meetings is a fundamental aspect of CREED’s charter, the greater impact of the body derives from establishing a university-led means to address substantive issues of economic significance facing the state and its regional communities. The primary objective of CREED is to foster greater communication and transfer of knowledge across campuses to ultimately promote statewide economic development.
Chaired by IU Vice President for Engagement Bill Stephan, CREED is comprised of chancellor-appointed representatives from each IU campus and representation from Southwest Indiana. Each representative serves in a position focused on community relations, economic, and/or engagement issues in interactions between the campus and the regional community, with specific expertise in these areas.
Upcoming blog posts will spotlight innovative regionally focused economic development initiatives in which IU is playing a key role around the state.
