Institute for Economic Development,
UTSA Downtown Campus

EDA salutes nine universities serving minorities

(Dec. 15, 2003)--The Economic Development Administration (EDA) honored UTSA President Ricardo Romo and eight other university presidents of minority-serving institutions at a reception and gala Dec. 8 at the Plaza Hotel.

Presidents from New Mexico Highlands University, UT El Paso, UT Brownsville, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, UT Pan American, Prairie View A&M, Texas A&M Kingsville, Institute of American Indian Art and UTSA were honored as visionary leaders of institutions whose enrollment has a minority majority. UTSA boasts a 59 percent minority enrollment.

"UTSA is honored to be one of the states leaders in closing the gaps," said Romo. "We take seriously our role in providing access to excellence in higher education."

At the event, EDA representatives recognized the critical competitive edge these institutions provide not only the local economy but also the U.S. economy.

"Universities are key drivers of regional economic growth," said Pedro Garza, regional director for the EDA, Southwest Region, U.S. Department of Commerce. "Through their use of leading edge technology, research and development efforts, they help create wealth by attracting both public and private sector investment to their communities. EDA values its partnership with the leaders we honor and the institutions they represent."

According to a recent study, UTSA has a total estimated economic impact on the state of Texas of more than $852 million. In San Antonio alone, UTSA pumps more than $773 million into the local economy.

The partnership between the EDA and the UTSA Institute for Economic Development (IED) helped forge programs such as the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Region, the San Antonio SBDC, the International Trade Center, the SBDC Technology Center and Defense Economic Transition Assistance Program, the SBDC National Information Clearinghouse, the IRS Compliance Alliance Program and the Human Capital Program all housed in UTSA.

"Universities shape their regional economies by preparing the workforce for jobs of tomorrow, moving new research and technologies out into the marketplace, consulting with businesses and communities on growth and development and enriching the quality of life through arts and social activities," said Robert McKinley, associate vice president for IED and regional director of the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center. "In all these arenas, a blending of diverse cultures and ideas converge to define our shared destiny and shared responsibility for tomorrow."

For more information, contact Robert McKinley at 210-458-2450.

--Stephanie Mota