In honor of President James C. Schmidt’s inauguration week, JMU’s division of Research, Economic Development and Innovation invited guests to explore the university’s impactful, real-world research. The April 9 event offered demonstrations, success stories, and conversations with faculty, staff, and students.
REDI helps secure external funding for student research and supports initiatives such as the Travel Grant Award program in the Office of Student Awards, Initiatives and Research. It also supports Research to Impact, which connects innovators with mentors and resources to bring their research ideas to life.
“Behind each funded proposal, REDI has logged significant investment — over $25 million this year alone,” Schmidt said. “By partnering with brilliant minds and dedicated teams, we are creating a pipeline of innovation that moves both our university and society forward. As we look toward the future of The Madison Promise, these partnerships are more important than ever.”
Schmidt also noted the shifting landscape of higher-education funding. “Federal priorities are changing, and competition for research dollars is increasing; however, JMU is ready to meet these challenges because of the talented people in this room,” he said.
“Today’s event reflects the vision we share with JMU’s future, one rooted in discovery, creativity, meaningful impact, and fulfilling the JMU promise through research and innovation,” said Dr. Besi Muhonja, associate vice president for Research and Scholarship. “It highlights an integrated ecosystem that supports regional to global research, administration, student creativity and scholarly impact.”
The impact of REDI extends beyond multiple programs and initiatives at JMU related to research. Dr. Linda Plitt Donaldson, associate dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Studies and director of the Institute for Innovation and Health and Human Services, noted there are seven active research projects involving the college and IIHHS.
“We really couldn’t do it without REDI,” Donaldson said. “They’ve been really wonderful and important key, critical colleagues. I can’t say enough about our partnership and our collective team, with the success that we’ve been able to have.”
While the numbers and logistics highlight JMU’s growth in research, the personal impact on students remains the primary focus.
Edward Tomlinson, a sophomore History major, participated in the First Year Research Experience and presented his work nationally.
“After hearing President Schmidt speak yesterday, instead of my original prepared speech, I am going to speak directly from the heart,” Tomlinson said. “One line from his remarks yesterday stayed with me: ‘Dare to be different.’ When I reflect on my two years here, there is no phrase more fitting, more apropos of what this undergraduate experience has meant.”
Tomlinson credits his successes to REDI and its mentors. “So, to every student who has ever felt a little out of place, a little overprepared and a little different, this university is for you. This moment is for you, and my advice to you is simple: Dare to be different.”