Missouri State University won the University Economic Development Association’s (UEDA) 2009 Award of Excellence for its work on the IDEA Commons at the annual symposium Oct. 11-13. Missouri State received this award in the category of Community Development.

“This award recognizes a significant effort by a UEDA member in assisting organizations to develop stronger communities,” said Allen Kunkel, associate vice president for economic development at Missouri State University.

The IDEA Commons competed against 34 other submissions for the Award of Excellence. North Carolina State University and the University of Memphis were the other two finalists in the category of Community Development.

“Being recognized by a national association, and by a group of our peers, reinforces the vision and impact that IDEA Commons will have on Springfield and the surrounding region,” added Kunkel.

IDEA Commons is Missouri State’s vision and commitment to create a urban research park that is blended with residential, retail and entertainment facilities, and supported by various university programs. This project brings  together Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship and Arts (IDEA) and is an example of how the university continues to be engaged in promoting the community’s livability and economic success.

For more information, contact Kunkel at (417) 836-3020.

Filed Under: award · economics · IDEA Commons · kunkel · research