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The Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA) is an all-University applied research and technical assistance center at the University of Minnesota that connects faculty and student researchers with nonprofit organizations, businesses, inner-city neighborhoods, local governments, and public institutions throughout Minnesota. In a typical year, CURA supports as many as 100 community-based projects that involve faculty and students from the University and other institutions of higher education throughout the Twin Cities.
In keeping with the University of Minnesota’s land-grant mission, CURA was established by the Board of Regents in 1968 to strengthen the involvement of the University in addressing the pressing “urban crisis” of the time. Although the social and political upheaval of that period have long since passed, most of the issues raised so dramatically then are still with us today: protecting and enhancing the vitality of all parts of the state’s economy; understanding the challenges and implications of population and demographic change; providing energy, education, housing, clean air and water, social and human services, public safety, and recreation for Minnesota’s communities; and understanding how we use our land and natural resources, how our communities develop, and how citizens can participate more effectively in the decisions affecting their lives.
In creating CURA, the University’s Board of Regents and President made manifest their philosophy that urban and regional issues are inextricably linked, and CURA has maintained that perspective throughout its 37 years of existence. Even a casual review of our recent projects and programs illustrates CURA’s central role in connecting the University of Minnesota with people, organizations, and communities throughout the state—from large cities, suburbs, and regional centers to small towns and rural areas.
In the years since it was established, CURA has worked across disciplinary boundaries and leveraged resources to tackle complex public policy issues facing Minnesota. Today, CURA is a nationally recognized center that attracts funding from federal, state, local, and private-sector sponsors to support its diverse research, outreach, and technical assistance activities. CURA continues to serve as a major resource and facilitator at the University of Minnesota, helping talented researchers develop new knowledge about public policy issues, and then share and disseminate that knowledge. Ultimately, this knowledge improves public policy decision making, resulting in smarter investments, stronger communities, and a higher quality of life for Minnesota and the nation.
CURA Research Areas | CURA Programs | CURA Staff
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