The University of Minnesota will become among the top three public research institutions nationally and internationally through its unique ability to research, educate and extend knowledge on all aspects of the influence of nutrition, diet, exercise and food safety on health. Over the next 10 to 20 years, the HFHL initiative brings together highest quality, integrated research efforts, independent of defined units, that translates into improved quality of life for citizens.
The University expands upon its land grant mission, as the HFHL initiative advances, through:
• Economic development. Integrates research that further supports Minnesota’s industries and the economy as well as expanded capacity to attract federal research dollars;
• Improved health and wellness. Improves personal and family health of citizens (including diet, nutrition, exercise and lifestyle choices) while linking existing University resources with local needs and priorities;
• Partnerships. Strengthens collaborative relationships with other public and private sector entities that include pre-K through 12 and other higher education institutions; health care providers; food production, processing, marketing and retailing companies; agribusiness and food manufacturers; and public health; and basic research endeavors;
• Policy analysis. Describes healthcare cost savings, and Minnesota-designed models that can be replicated elsewhere (and that bring visibility to the University and the state),
• Education of future professionals. Designs innovative educational opportunities that attract students and result in top-quality professionals who are retained in the state;
• Public awareness. Creates a public awareness that translates into public health success that can be shared by many public and private sector partners in the state’s healthcare, food and agricultural industries; and
• Public benefit, commercialization of technology. Efficiently transfers biosciences and other research and technology from the University into the private sector, including start-up companies to further achieve public health gains.
Over time, the University will attract even more top-rate faculty and students, based on existing distinguished faculty, outstanding facilities and a supportive research environment that values the quality interdisciplinary research that stems from disciplinary excellence. Other measures of success will include publications, grant awards, improved health and reduced health care costs, engaged organizational partners and citizens and increased number of food and health related start-up companies in the state.
Return to: College of Veterinary Medicine : Academic Health Center : myU : U of M Home
