“Vermont faces challenges that are often unique to rural areas. The Institute for Rural Partnerships at ̽̽ will enable the University to make an impact in Vermont and the nation. I want all Vermont communities to have the opportunity to thrive.”
-Retired U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.
“The Institute for Rural Partnerships is an ideal realization of ̽̽’s land-grant mission in service to our state. Connecting the university’s talented research and innovation experts with promising, motivated groups with big ideas from across the state will deliver valuable impact in all 14 Vermont counties and beyond."
-University of Vermont President Suresh Garimella
Key Program Objectives
FACILITATE HIGH-QUALITY PARTNERSHIPS
Identify partners to advance solution-oriented ideas related to the rural community and economic development.
FOSTER MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
Connect ̽̽ with organizations in Vermont and initiate engagement through student internships, service learning, and collaborative rural and economic advancements.
MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT
Identify quantifiable progress in key opportunity areas including agriculture, connected community schools, transit and housing, workplace practices, communication technologies, healthcare, green rural energy, resilient ecosystems, and policy and governance.