Momentous Celebration

Florida Atlantic University’s Division of Research (DOR) celebrated reaching the pinnacle of research excellence.

In February, the University achieved the coveted status of R1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education – the most prestigious research accolade in the country.

Earning this distinction was the culmination of decades of scientific inquiry and discovery, as well as training the next generation of scholars and doctoral-level researchers. In recognition of these incredible efforts, the DOR invited the University community to its second annual Research Renewal symposium. This unique, daylong gathering offered attendees the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge faculty research underway across the University, network among colleagues, and engage with student and postdoc research posters.

The highlight of the day was the R1 Appreciation Luncheon. Gregg Fields, Ph.D., Vice President for Research, opened the program with reflection and congratulations to the more than 150 faculty, staff and students assembled for the event. Fields also highlighted the marketing campaign designed to broadcast FAU’s R1 announcement to the world. Dubbed the “mosaic or quilt,” the beautiful patchwork design highlighted every aspect of FAU’s scholarly endeavors throughout its 10 colleges and four research institutes. Fields paid special congratulations to Kasia Bytnar, assistant director of multimedia for research communications, for her masterful artwork.

FAU President Adam Hasner gave the keynote address where he explained the game-changing benefits FAU is poised to experience as a result of the new designation. Achieving R1status was not simply a small cohort of people checking off a few requirements. It was the result of an unwavering, University-wide commitment to knowledge, discovery and inspiring young minds to continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The R1 designation indicates a truly comprehensive university that spurs economic development, attracts high-quality students and faculty, and increases external funding.

Research Renewal featured 22 presentations from research faculty, representing every college and research institute. In addition, dozens of undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctoral fellows had the opportunity to share their work through poster presentation sessions. Most researchers’ time is occupied with their labs, fieldwork and teaching, through Research Renewal, they had the opportunity to engage with projects and recent breakthroughs outside their specialized discipline, gathering a broader perspective of the remarkable academic community fostered at FAU.

View more photos of the Research Renewal event.