Community Impact

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We're committed to our students, our communities, and our values.

We are Arizona-centric.

Sense of Place

Our location is more than just a backdrop—it’s our competitive edge. Nestled in Arizona’s second-largest city, U of A is a hub for cultural, technological, and scientific innovation. Tucson provides a dynamic urban setting for our campus, while its clear, dark skies allow us to excel in space sciences and offer access to world-class observatories like Kitt Peak and the Large Binocular Telescope. The Sonoran Desert, including the five breathtaking mountain ranges that surround us, is our living laboratory. And Tucson’s over one million residents comprise vibrant cultures that inspire and shape us.

Technology and Research Initiative Fund (TRIF)

Established with public support via voter approval, TRIF is an essential resource for growing Arizona’s economy and providing opportunities for Arizona residents to work, learn and thrive. The U of A has received more than $400 million in TRIF funding. TRIF is paid for by Arizona taxpayers and administered through the Arizona Board of Regents. TRIF funding has enabled more than $2 billion in additional outside research dollars to benefit U of A research enterprises. 

 

Experiential Learning

When education comes to life through hands-on experiences and mentorship, students graduate with the skills they need to excel in the workforce. Both in and out of the classroom, U of A students acquire critical collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills. Whether through research in the lab, artistic expression on the stage, or even launching an entrepreneurial venture, our students learn from exciting, immersive experiences.

Economic Development

With a multibillion-dollar impact, the reach of U of A research dollars spans well beyond university labs. U of A’s research and innovation ecosystem translates cutting-edge discoveries into patented intellectual property and transforms work done at the bench into products available in the marketplace. Through the growth of start-ups, creation of in-demand jobs, and impact multiplier of industry partnerships, we fuel economic prosperity in Arizona.

Explore our Innovation Units

Societal Impact

We are committed to improving and enriching the lives of real people across our state through accessible education and training, groundbreaking research, and unique outreach and engagement. With the determination to tackle grand challenges such as environmental sustainability, healthcare innovation, social equity, and technological advancement, we are paving the way toward a brighter future for all.

Historic black and white photo of Old Main

Arizona’s Land-Grant Mission

Accessible education, research and outreach statewide

Through impactful research, education, and partnerships with local stakeholders, we address the challenges faced by real people in Arizona and across the globe. Whether it's developing drought-resistant crops or optimizing urban infrastructure, we focus both on big questions and practical solutions to real-world problems. From sustainable farming workshops to free health screenings, engagement with our communities defines us. And our scholarships, support services, and flexible learning options ensure that all students have access to a world-class education.

Learn about Research and U of A's Land Grant Mission

Image of YWOI Jazmine Jesson standing in front of a WOI sign.

Celebrating Women and Young Women of Impact

The Women of Impact Initiative and the Young Women of Impact program recognize the contributions of outstanding University faculty and staff and Pima County high school students who exemplify U of A’s values. Aspiring young women and accomplished women from varying stages in their professional and academic careers are connected through activities including a luncheon featuring a panel discussion about the challenges and experiences specific to women, and an award celebration where honorees are recognized and encouraged by leaders from the university, the Arizona Board of Regents, and local and state government. The Young Women of Impact program aims to increase enrollment at the U of A and to facilitate mentorship amongst women that spanning ages and career stages.

Women of Impact Initiative  |  Young Women of Impact Program