NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson Receives 2023 Leadership Award for Advancing Innovation

Why It Matters:

The recognition of Chancellor Woodson's leadership highlights the impact of NC State and its Centennial Campus in driving research, innovation, and economic growth. This award showcases the importance of university research and technology parks in fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

The Details:

• Chancellor Woodson received the AURP Leadership Award for his outstanding contribution to the success and economic impact of a university research and technology park.

• Under his leadership, NC State's research expenditures have increased by 47% since 2010, reaching $547 million in 2021.

• NC State has played a crucial role in attracting national and global industries to North Carolina, leading to the state being recognized as America's Top State for Business by CNBC in 2022 and 2023.

• The Centennial Campus has grown to include over 70 industry and government organizations, collaborating with academic departments and centers.

• Over the past five years, these partnerships have resulted in more than 2,000 NC State students being hired and $120 million invested in university research.

• Notable achievements include the opening of the Plant Sciences Building in 2022, Fitts-Woolard Hall in 2020, and the establishment of the IBM Quantum Computing Hub in 2018.

Conclusion:

Chancellor Randy Woodson's leadership has propelled NC State and its Centennial Campus to become a hub for research, innovation, and industry collaboration. The AURP Leadership Award recognizes his significant contributions to the success and economic impact of the university research park.