The total increased from $5.5 million in 1998-99 to its current level because faculty are working in areas that are being heavily funded, said James Pyle, assistant vice president for research.

"We've seen tremendous growth in research funding for education, community outreach, communications, and health and wellness," Pyle said. "Those are the areas in which our faculty, as well as the entire university, has expertise.

"The bottom line is that our students will greatly benefit from faculty research by working side-by-side with faculty," he said. "At the same time, this research also will help us find even more ways in which Ball State can enhance the quality of living for Hoosiers statewide."

Also contributing to the increase in research funding has been Ball State's ability to become more attractive to outside agencies.

"I believe we have a greater visibility on the national scene," Pyle said. "Our reputation is such that we don't have to battle name recognition when national reviewers come upon an application from Ball State. They know we have the resources to do the job and do it well."

Other factors making Ball State an attractive option to outside agencies include:

• Faculty projects based on solving problems as part of a partnership with outside organizations.
• A strong internal network of researchers working together, which increases the pool of available expertise to include students, faculty and staff.
• Leadership and support from administrators to assist faculty with their research projects and other opportunities with sponsored programs.
• A high level of student participation in research projects, particularly at the undergraduate level, providing students more preparation for the workplace upon graduation.
• Improved faculty development allowing professors to seek out research in their disciplines.

Pyle said research funding levels can continue to grow in the foreseeable future.

"Steady future growth is possible if we address our opportunities and provide appropriate encouragement and support," he said. "External funding has more than quadrupled in the last four years, but such exponential growth is not likely to happen over the next four years."

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Pyle at jpyle@bsu.edu or (765) 285-1600.)