Message from the Chancellor

December, 2005

From improving rural transportation to tracking terrorists around the globe, cutting-edge UA research is leading the way to a better Arkansas and a better world. And the word is spreading! University of Arkansas research is gaining the notice and support it warrants from leaders across America.

Four years ago, I invited a group of more than 90 business, education and government leaders-called the 2010 Commission-to help study and present the case for the importance of The University of Arkansas in the state's cultural and economic future. Their first report, MAKING THE CASE, met with great success both nationally and internationally.

On March 2, the Commission released its follow-up report, PICKING UP THE PACE, now available online at http://www.uark.edu/2010.html. Printed copies can be obtained by request at chancell@uark.edu.

PICKING UP THE PACE makes a number of recommendations for fueling the improvement of both the state of Arkansas and The University of Arkansas. Among its most compelling arguments is the need for increased support of The University of Arkansas' research mission. The Commission recognizes that the UA research mission will lead to "new products, processes, discoveries, insights, and interpretations necessary for economic and cultural progress." UA research will spawn start-up businesses, will foster a scientifically and technologically trained workforce, and will lead to increased dollars for the state of Arkansas.

Perhaps most illuminating is the finding that every dollar invested in university-based research in Arkansas yields an annual return on investment to the Arkansas economy of 23.2 percent. Put another way, one dollar invested in university-based research yields eight dollars to Arkansas after a period of ten years.

A passage on page 19 of PICKING UP THE PACE might sum up the argument best: "The 2010 Commission believes that, if Arkansas wishes to bring its scientific and technological research to 21st Century standards, its major course of action must be to invest heavily in The University of Arkansas."

I couldn't agree more. Thumb through the pages of Research Frontiers and you will see that University of Arkansas research is leading the state, the nation and the world to a brighter future. With increased financial support, who knows what fantastic discoveries, innovations and cures UA research will produce?

Happy reading,

John A. White
Chancellor, University of Arkansas