Topic: Building Better Communities
March 13, 2013
Building Better Communities (BBC), an integrated office of Ball State University, today announced an initiative to recognize Indiana communities that have made special efforts to make themselves especially appealing to residents and businesses.
Numerous studies have identified the importance of attracting talent to Indiana communities as a key factor in bringing new business to the state. BBC has partnered with the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs to recognize communities that have made innovative strides toward enhancing their vitality through programs designed to nurture quality-of-life enhancements. The program’s goal is to emphasize the important role the arts, education, wellness and sustainability play in economic development in Indiana, and highlight communities that are leading the way.
“We understand that quality of life and a sense of place are critical to economic development,” said John Fallon, associate vice president of economic development and community engagement. “Ball State has a long history of contributing to such assets throughout the state. We believe we can further help Indiana with its economic development goals by focusing more attention on this area. The Primacy of Place Community Awards program is dedicated to the concept of quality of place as a means, not an end.”
This is the first of several initiatives that BBC plans to launch in coming months, including university-based knowledge groups, a series of best-practices databases for community leaders throughout Indiana and a statewide conference in Indianapolis this fall.
Up to three Primacy of Place Community Award winners will be notified July 24, and awards will be presented during a ceremony at Ball State’s Indianapolis Center Aug. 8.
Applications are due May 24. To learn more about this program and submit your community for an award, visit www.bsu.edu/bbc/primacyofplace or call 765-285-2773.
By Joan Todd, Executive Director of Public Relations