A collaborative research project funded by the Robert W. Hearin Foundation provides the opportunity for Jackson State University to establish Think Tanks, according to Dr. Rodney Washington, associate professor of education.
Washington and Dr. Nicholas Hill, associate professor of economics, will serve as co-principal investigators for a joint effort between Jackson State and the University of Mississippi to provide the Mississippi Economic Council (MEC) with research support, policy recommendations and action plans to advance Blueprint Mississippi. Dr. Loretta Moore, vice president of research and federal relations, will provide administrative oversight and serve as the primary contact for the core research team and the MEC.
“This initiative will recruit internal and external consultants and experts to comprise research teams or think tanks to address issues and policy recommendations from the MEC. These efforts are outlined to offer perspectives from both institutions as a competent resource for our state’s growth,” Washington said.
“This project offers an amazing opportunity to establish a sound pool of faculty experts to meet the challenges of our state with sound solutions,” Washington said.
Blueprint Mississippi is an independent cooperative of organizations and leaders with a common goal of advancing Mississippi’s opportunities in economics and education. Released in January 2012, Blueprint Mississippi 2011 provides a detailed analysis of the state’s current position and potential for growth. A major component of the document includes strengthening Mississippi’s Economy and Educational Achievement.
A think tank will be composed of experts recruited by the project managers to contribute their time and skills to establish a research agenda reflective of the state’s position to improve educational and economic growth for residents of Mississippi.
Jackson State faculty and others who are interested in supporting this effort or learning more about Blueprint Mississippi may contact Washington at rodney.washington@jsums.edu or Hill at nicholas.hill@jsums.edu.