University Research Center (URC), a division of Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), hosts an annual conference that brings Mississippi’s researchers and concerned citizens together. The goal of the conference is to uncover productive ways to overcome challenges and foster growth in Mississippi, while creating better economic conditions for all Mississippians.
All researchers are invited to submit an abstract for consideration including but not limited to undergraduate and graduate students, think tank and private researchers and academic scholars. The researchers present their work on advancing Mississippi’s economy in a way that’s accessible to everyone including undergraduate students, members of the community, lawmakers, community leaders, and all Mississippians interested in making a difference in the state’s economic growth. Attendance is free to all.
Below are the slides for the 2025 presentations. If you’re interested in learning about the 2026 conference, please email Dr. Sondra Collins at scollins@mississippi.edu.
2025 Presentations
Leaving Growth on the Table: Classroom-Level Effects of Kindergarten Readiness on Student Outcomes
From Debut to Final Curtain: Investment in Highschool Theatre is Investment in our Future
Bridging Mississippi’s Human Capital Gap: A Scalable Micro-Credentials Framework for Economic Growth
The Effect of On-Campus Housing and Off-Campus Rental Costs on College Enrollment
Telemedicine Kiosks: Solving Mississippi's Rural Healthcare Crisis
Population Change and Community Vitality
