DATE: March 13, 2008
CONTACT:
Cathy Sams, (864) 656-2061
cathy.sams@pubaff.clemson.edu
WRITER:
Robin S. Denny, (864) 656-2061
robin@clemson.edu
National Academy of Sciences invites Clemson president to address international symposium, share CU-ICAR story
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Clemson University President James Barker delivered the keynote address Thursday at a Washington, D.C., symposium organized by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences with the Association of University Research Parks.
The symposium, focusing on best practices, brought together policy-makers, academic leaders and scientists to identify ways science and technology can stimulate economic development, create jobs and improve quality of life for citizens worldwide.
Noting the importance of collaboration, Barker shared the story of the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR), a 250-acre campus designed to create opportunities for collaboration and established on that principle.
“The combination of proven academic strength, strategic state investments and meaningful engagement of private partners is an unbeatable formula for success,” said Barker.
In four years, CU-ICAR has generated more than $220 million in public and private investments, created hundreds of new jobs and established university partnerships with major companies, such as BMW, Michelin and Timken.
Dr. John Marburger, science adviser to the president and director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, visited CU-ICAR in August 2006. He said CU-ICAR is an outstanding example of the American Competitiveness Initiative.
Clemson University was founded to be a driver of economic development.
“It is part of our history, our core mission and our DNA,” said Barker. “For 120 years, we have delivered on Thomas Green Clemson’s vision: serving the needs of the key industries of South Carolina as they evolved from agriculture to textiles to ceramics… and now into both mature and emerging sectors such as automotive, advanced materials and biotechnology.”