As a land-grant institution, Utah State University has a mandate to solve many of the practical problems facing the state.  Consequently, USU has developed research strengths in diverse areas that affect Utahns, including water, arid land agriculture, natural resources management, and human services.

In this new century, however, the world has become increasingly globalized, and our backyard is no longer just Cache Valley, Utah, or even the United States.  Our issues are the world’s issues, and USU water research in Juab County applies just as much in the Middle East; infant massage techniques developed in Logan work just as well in Latin America; massive bark beetle infestations in Central Utah can be tracked the same way in Central Europe; and earthquake-resistant buildings designed for Salt Lake City will withstand tremors just as well in Asia.

Because of the “flattening” of the world, USU, along with other universities across the nation, has ramped up efforts to engage in research on an international level.  Through the leadership of Professor DeeVon Bailey, hired as associate vice president for research this year to lead international development, we expect to see the impact we make on Utah spread to even more nations abroad.

Nowhere is positive university influence needed more than in Africa.  Higher education is key in creating broad-based economic growth and sustainable development in the region.  You’ll see USU’s engagement in Africa in the story featured in February of this calendar.  USU researcher Layne Coppock (pictured left) and his colleagues are working to help African pastoralists insulate themselves from poverty, drought, famine, and conflict. Through teamwork, pooled resources, and joint business ventures, more than 60 groups have been able to improve their household living conditions; send children to school; and make, save—and even loan—money.  These efforts represent important steps toward creating economic growth in Africa.

In 2009, USU research will continue to help solve practical problems, support students, and fuel the economy.  Each month in this calendar, you’ll see ways that we already are engaged—in all parts of our global backyard.

Thank you for your interest in and support of Utah State University.

Best Regards,



Brent C. Miller, Ph.D.
Vice President for Research