Prairie View, Texas (April 4, 2024) — On Thursday, April 4, Prairie View A&M University marked a momentous occasion as it officially announced and commemorated its recognition as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) – Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP). This designation represents a pivotal milestone in the university’s pursuit of academic excellence and its commitment to driving economic impact.
During a special luncheon held during R&I week on the campus of PVAMU, the announcement was made, sparking jubilation and pride within the university community as they gathered to commemorate this remarkable achievement. Pete O’Neill, Chief Innovation Officer & Associate Vice Chancellor of Texas A&M University Operations, attended the occasion, offering support and delivering remarks that added to the significance of the moment.
The road to this esteemed recognition began long before the official announcement. Last fall, PVAMU received the prestigious honor, laying the groundwork for the subsequent celebration. This acknowledgment underscored the university’s commitment to fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and serving as a catalyst for positive change in its surrounding communities.
“We’re honored and proud to be recognized by APLU as an IEP University,” said PVAMU President Tomikia P. LeGrande, Ed.D. “Innovation and service are at the heart of our mission as a land-grant university, and this award reflects PVAMU’s commitment to building, transforming, and sustaining the communities that surround us. It recognizes our university for being a changemaker, dedicated to increasing access to education, making important discoveries, developing the workforce, and enhancing the quality of life for all.”
PVAMU’s designation as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University signifies more than just a title; it reflects the institution’s dedication to advancing research, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. Through collaborative efforts between faculty, staff, students, and local stakeholders, PVAMU has demonstrated its ability to translate knowledge into real-world solutions, spurring economic prosperity and societal advancement.
“PVAMU’s research enterprise endeavors to create, advance, and enhance curriculum and strategic initiatives, fostering scholarly empowerment and pushing the frontiers of innovation,” stated PVAMU’s Vice President of Research and Innovation (R&I), Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., MBA, P.E. “With the IEP designation and our sustained interdisciplinary programs and partnerships, PVAMU remains committed to nurturing individuals and supporting community development, enabling them to achieve their utmost potential.”
The journey towards becoming an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University aligns with PVAMU’s broader strategic goals, including its aspiration to attain R1 status—a designation reserved for doctoral universities with the highest research activity. By continually pushing boundaries and expanding its research portfolio, PVAMU is positioning itself as a leader in innovation and scholarship, contributing to the collective body of knowledge and addressing pressing societal challenges.
Through cutting-edge research, transformative education, and meaningful community partnerships, PVAMU is not only shaping the future of higher education but also making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities it serves.
In celebrating its designation as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University, PVAMU reaffirms its mission to cultivate a vibrant culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility. With each milestone achieved, PVAMU further solidifies its position as a beacon of academic excellence and a driving force for positive change in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education and beyond.
By Joe McGinty