IU names economic development advisers

A 12-member group of distinguished business and community leaders have agreed to serve as economic development advisers to IU President Michael McRobbie.

The president’s Economic Development Cabinet will meet at least three times a year with McRobbie to provide input and counsel on how the University can best leverage its many research assets into initiatives that will advance both the University’s needs and the state of Indiana’s long-term economic development goals, according to an IU press release.

“I am extremely grateful that such a remarkably talented group of people have volunteered their time and energy to help Indiana University find new and better ways to serve the state,” McRobbie said in a statement. “This will give Indiana University the benefit of knowledgeable advice and counsel from people who well understand the potential of commercializing university-developed technology.”

Also serving in the Economic Development Cabinet is IU Vice President for Engagement Bill Stephan, who has statewide responsibility for the University’s economic development programs and initiatives.

“Expanding our technology transfer operations will benefit both the academic and research missions of the University by giving us yet another source of funding to grow our research capacity and programs,” Stephan said in a statement. “It also helps the state grow new businesses and make existing businesses more competitive in the global economy.”