University Economic Development Association

As you are probably aware, the 2013 Awards of Excellence are right around the corner.  We are currently accepting applications for Colleges and Universities to submit their leading edge initiatives to UEDA where members will vote on the winner.  All nominations are due by May 31, 2013 so be sure to get all of your materials ready and register today.

UEDA asked some of last year’s Awards of Excellence winners about their experience with the Awards. We talked to Bradley Kramer, the director of the Advanced Manufacturing Institute at Kansas State University, and here is what he had to say about his university’s 2012 submission to the Awards and some words of encouragement for organizations considering submitting an application this year.

1. What aspects of your project, do you feel, made the difference in being selected as a finalist for the UEDA Awards of Excellence?

Number one, I think our project is really making a difference in Kansas.  We have a great team of people working on the project.  It builds on our past successes, but also projects strongly into the future.

2. What is your advice to other universities who are considering entering this year’s UEDA Awards of Excellence?

Even without winning the award, you have something positive you can share with your stakeholders.  To me, just making the finals is great news to share that can advance your program.  On top of that, attending the conference and hearing all the great things that others are doing helps you develop new ideas for things you can do in your university and region.

3. What was your experience like at the UEDA Annual Summit and Awards Banquet  when your university was a finalist?

Great interaction with other UEDA members.  Great feedback on our work and our presentation.

4.  What kind of promotional and press coverage has your university received since being a winner of the 2012 Awards?

We had a press release that was picked up in a variety of outlets across the state and we’ve actively promoted that our work was valued by others outside the state – that’s very helpful.