UT Dallas Lauded for Workforce Contributions

UT Dallas, whose mission includes service to the region in academic endeavors and innovative research, was recognized recently for its contributions in yet another area of importance to North Texas—the workforce.

The University received the Dallas Regional Chamber’s Workforce Catalyst award at the recent 2008 Momentum Awards. The University was identified as a global leader in innovative, high-quality science, engineering, and business education and research.

“Great universities connect and collaborate with their communities on a cultural, intellectual, and economic level,” said Dr. David E. Daniel, UT Dallas president. “This award is particularly valued because it symbolizes the community’s recognition of UT Dallas’ contributions to this critical partnership, and validates the university’s commitment and responsibility to our community. We’re proud to be part of this wonderful community and to contribute to its success.”

The Momentum Awards were envisioned in 2001 by Frank Roby, CEO of Holmes Murphy-Texas. Roby recognized the need to celebrate the positive accomplishments made by companies that are helping the local economy through job growth and expansion.

“The Dallas Regional Chamber’s annual Momentum Awards recognize companies and organizations that make a significant and positive contribution to the Dallas region’s economy,” said Mike Rosa, vice president for economic development at the Dallas Regional Chamber.

“Awards are given in several categories: among those are job growth, locations in the region, major investments and regional catalysts,” Rosa said. “We were delighted to recognize UT Dallas and its contribution to our workforce and consequently our region’s success in economic development.”

The award is given to organizations that excel at preparing the workforce of tomorrow. With seven schools offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, the University offers nationally ranked neuroscience, language pathology and audiology programs, a pre-law program that routinely ushers students into the nation’s top 10 law schools and a pre-health program whose students are admitted to medical schools on first application at a rate 25 percent higher than the national average.

From degree plans that focus on the booming and complicated world of computer gaming to a Ph.D. in criminology, the University has charted degree plans that prepare students for ultra-modern careers.

Total Research Spending, a driver of increased employment figures, soared past the previous year’s total to $64.3 million—an increase of $16.4 million in a single year.

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