MEMPHIS, Tenn. (October 2025) — The University of Memphis has received the 2025 University Economic Development Association (UEDA) Engaged University Award for its Delta Revitalization through Innovation, Vision, and Empowerment (DRIVE) program — a regional initiative empowering rural communities through collaborative, place-based growth strategies.
“The University of Memphis, as a Carnegie R1 institution, recognizes that regional success depends on a decentralized ecosystem of partners who thrive together,” said Dr. Cody Behles, executive director of Research Development and Innovation. “Programs like DRIVE reflect the work of many of our faculty who are deeply committed to advancing regional growth through collaboration and innovation.”
The Engaged University Award honors higher education institutions that act as dynamic catalysts for regional prosperity by integrating UEDA’s three foundational pillars: Talent, Innovation and Place. Award recipients are recognized for their ability to extend impact beyond campus boundaries, forge partnerships that strengthen local economies, foster resilience and co-create solutions to community challenges.
DRIVE leverages the University’s Carnegie R1 research capacity to assist rural communities in identifying and pursuing transformational funding opportunities through grants and other mechanisms. By combining applied research, technical expertise and local engagement, DRIVE exemplifies the University’s commitment to place-based, enduring development across the Mid-South and beyond.
DRIVE is currently involved in twelve towns in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee, each ranging from 500 to 10,000 residents: Byhalia (Miss.), Brownsville (Tenn.), Tunica (Miss.), Helena-West Helena (Ark.), Whiteville (Tenn.), Port Gibson (Miss.), Hazelhurst (Miss.), Osceola (Ark.), Eudora (Ark.), Dumas (Ark.), Wilmot (Ark.) and Stanton (Tenn.). According to DRIVE Director Dr. Adrienne Cooper, 11 of these 12 communities have already received funding with DRIVE’s support. To date, 47 funding applications have been submitted, with 20 approved — totaling $3.8 million — and another 18 still pending.
“What makes the UEDA Awards unique is that the finalists are vetted by peers and judged by the very professionals who do this work every day,” said Jenny Mizutowicz, UEDA Awards of Excellence chair and director of economic development and sustainability liaison at University of Texas at Dallas. “It’s a rigorous, real-world review process that highlights programs making a measurable difference in their regions and gives our members a chance to learn from each other’s successes.”
Founded in 1976, the UEDA brings together higher education institutions, private-sector businesses, non-profits, government organizations and community development leaders to foster economic opportunity nationwide. Each year, UEDA honors universities that exemplify best practices in driving inclusive, community-centered economic development.
The University of Memphis’ recognition underscores its growing national reputation as a hub for innovation and regional engagement — one that connects academic excellence with real-world impact.
###
Media Contact:
Parker King, Assistant Director
University Media and Public Relations
University of Memphis
(O) 901.678.4822
