UMSL ★ Community & Economic Development, Community Education, Training & Professional Development, UM System Collaborations

Anchor Institution Initiative

UMSL has embraced an Anchor Mission and is committed to intentionally applying the University’s place-based operational and educational assets in partnership with community to build a strong North County and Saint Louis region. Leaders across the University identified four core areas where UMSL can support our local community – Economic Development, Housing and Community Development, Education, Health and Services.

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Resource, Resource

UMSL’s Anchor Institution Initiative is working to strengthen the local community by committing to local purchasing, local hiring, and community development. To reach these goals, UMSL has hosted a Vendor Opportunity Fair, partnered with North Tech and SoulFisher ministries for hiring events, and secured a "Great Streets" grant to redevelop a large portion of Natural Bridge Road, creating a more walkable environment. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Anchor Institution Initiative has partnered with area economic development agencies to provide information and resources including host a resource webinar for small businesses.

UMSL Colleges of Nursing, Optometry, and Education and the School of Social Work continue to partner and develop projects with area schools, nonprofit organizations and health providers to address educational, health and social service needs in nearby communities.