Monday, November 11th
The Ledger (229 S Main St. Bentonville, AR 72712)

8:30am - 4:00pm

Registration Desk Opens (The Motto Lobby)

9:00am - 12:00pm

Leadership Roundtable – Future-Proofing Leadership: The Art of Succession Planning (The Classroom - Ledger First Floor)
Additional registration fee
Join us for a transformative session on the topic of succession planning, where we delve into the strategic imperative that ensures the longevity and resilience of an organization. Despite the common oversight in many organizations, effective succession planning is not just a process but a leadership obligation that equips the entity for future challenges and opportunities. This session will illuminate the essential steps to cultivate a robust succession plan, explore strategies to realign when off course, and provide actionable insights for scenarios where the plan falls short of its intended benefits. Engage with industry experts to empower your organization with the tools and foresight needed for seamless transitions and sustained success.

Chair: Leah Burton, Immediate Past President, AURP; Principal Industry Consultant for Higher Education, SAS Institute

Speakers:
Scott Levitan, President & CEO, Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina
Dawn Mason, PhD, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Partnerships, NC State University

12:30pm - 4:00pm

Optional Tours: The Collaborative, The University of Arkansas
Just minutes away from our conference headquarters, explore the catalyst that propels the innovation ecosystem in Bentonville! 
First tour group: 12:30pm
Second tour group: 2:30pm

1:00pm - 4:00pm

Meet the Leaders: Communities of Innovation 101 (The Classroom - Ledger First Floor)
Additional registration fee
Join the team and address your burning questions through the Meet the Leader speed networking session at the International Conference this fall in Bentonville. Open to those who have completed the Communities of Innovation 101 (COI) on-demand series or attended an in-person COI 101 session in the past five years.

Chair: Kate Engel, Executive Director, Nebraska Innovation Campus, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

Leaders: Harry Brislin, University of South Alabama; Harold Strong, Texas State University STAR Park; Aaron Olver, University of Wisconsin - Madison; Allison Madden, University of South Florida; Keisha Demps, North Carolina State University

4:00pm - 5:00pm

New Member Mixer (The Motto Bar)
AURP’s annual get together of our newest members with the AURP Board of Directors and peers setting a stage for collaboration and networking as we kick off the AURP Annual Conference.  

6:30pm

AURP Board of Directors’ Sponsor Appreciation Dinner
By invitation only.
Raise a glass to toast our 2024 International Conference Sponsors during this welcomed in-person tradition. 
The AURP Board of Directors, Past Presidents, 2024 Conference Planning Committee and invited Sustaining Member representatives, gather to honor our Annual and Conference Sponsors 

Tuesday, November 12th
Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House (491 North Razorback Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701)

7:30am - 10:30am

Registration Check-In Desk (The Motto Lobby)

 8:00am - 10:00am

WOMEN OF AURP (The Ledger Multi-Purpose Room - Sixth Floor)
Sponsor: Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

HOW TO LEAD AND LAST: Proven Ways to Cultivate Innovation, Engagement, and Retention Starting Within!
The untapped power of an organization or park is closely tied to a critical yet frequently overlooked connection: how personal well-being directly impacts professional achievement. All too often we focus on our professional growth yet forget that our personal well-being is the key to growth in all areas of our life. People frequently overlook their own physical and mental health, which in turn affects their effectiveness, efficiency, and impacts their ability to retain and engage their own teams. 
In her presentation, Dr. Theresa Larson, Founder of Movement Rx and Marine Corps veteran will reveal practical strategies that leaders of parks can easily incorporate into their everyday routines and workspace to boost not only their success in all areas, yet their teams and their parks.

Patricia Carper, Senior Vice President, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Dr. Theresa Larson, DPT, CSCS, USMC, Founder of Movement Rx; Marine Corps Veteran on a mission to Humanize Leadership
Vickie Palmer, Chief Executive Officer, AURP 

9:00am - 10:00am

Optional Tours of The Ledger (The Ledger Lobby)
The hub for conference activity as well as community. Take a deep dive into the first bikeable building and discover how this coworking facility changes the game in collaboration! 

10:00am - 10:30am

Load Motorcoaches for Fayetteville
Transportation will depart promptly at 10:30 

10:30am - 12:00pm

TOUR: THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS RESEARCH PARK
Sponsor: Olsson
Take a drive and experience the innovation firsthand in northwest Arkansas

12:00pm - 1:15pm

WELCOME & NETWORKING LUNCHEON

Allison Madden, Vice President, AURP; Corporate Secretary and Director of Operations, USF Research Park
Mike Malone, Vice Chancellor for Economic Development, University of Arkansas
Chancellor Charles F. Robinson

1:15pm - 1:45pm

OPENING KEYNOTE
INNOVATION DRIVING NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: UA’S ASSETS & STRATEGY FOR TRAILBLAZING
We kick off the conference with Toby Teeter and Mike Malone as they showcase how the Northwest Arkansas (NWA) region has grown exponentially in the past 20 years and the University of Arkansas is a key player. Learn how the advancements in innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives has positioned NWA to become a trailblazer in technology and leverage its resources to spearhead progress and shape the future.

Toby Teeter, Director, The Collaborative  
Mike Malone, Vice Chancellor for Economic Development, University of Arkansas 

1:45pm - 2:00pm

GENERAL SESSION
UA’S CONVERGENCE RESEARCH FOR SOCIETAL IMPACT: THE INSTITUTE FOR INTEGRATIVE AND INNOVATIVE RESEARCH I³R
I³R is a new kind of public research institute, one with convergence at its core and differentiated by a dual mandate to advance research excellence and impact economic development. While most research institutions focus on discovery and development, I³R's goal is deployment of innovations at scale through partnerships with industry, community and philanthropic organizations while educating and empowering a diverse and qualified future workforce. Explore how this 144,000 square foot facility is designed to drive innovation with its cutting edge technology, advanced laboratories, and a collaborative environment.

Dr. Ranu Jung, Associate Vice Chancellor, Founding Executive Director & Endowed Chair, Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R)  

2:00pm - 2:25pm

GENERAL SESSION
THE LIBRARY: THE ORIGINAL CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND LITERACY  
Libraries have a critical role within a community and the history of this evolving role is a reflection of what fostering growth and learning can do to a community. Learn from David Johnson on how the Fayetteville Public Library has supported the lifelong initiative of learning, technological access and creative development.

David Johnson, Executive Director, Fayetteville Public Library 

2:25pm - 2:45pm

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING, TRANSFORMATIONAL EXPERIENCES – OEI’S APPROACH TO STUDENT ENGAGEMENT  
How can experiential learning programs focused on entrepreneurship and innovation enhance student success and grow a regional entrepreneurial ecosystem? This session will cover how the University of Arkansas’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation approaches experiential learning by diving deep into three of our most successful student programs. We will share our methodology, strategy, and impact of these three programs so you can leave inspired to create or improve experiential programs of your own.

Deb Williams, Senior Director, Operations & Student Programs, University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Rachel Sullivant, Senior Associate Director, Student & Entrepreneurial Programs, University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship & Innovation

2:45pm - 3:15pm

NETWORKING BREAK

3:15pm - 3:30pm

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
THE PLACES OF INNOVATION: A NATIONAL REVIEW OF INNOVATION DISTRICTS  
In 2021, Ohio invested $300 million into the three world-class innovation districts located in the three major cities in Ohio. To better inform the development and ongoing growth of these three districts, the Center for Economic Development employed a qualitative approach to inform the research around innovation districts to drive innovation. The examination of nine innovation districts focuses on structure and operations, funding and growth, and place-based elements such as transportation, housing, and collaboration.    

Molly Schnoke, Director, Center for Economic Development, The Levin College of Public Affairs, Cleveland State University  
Kristen Blazek, PhD, Research Associate, Center for Economic Development, The Levin College of Public Affairs, Cleveland State University 

3:30pm - 4:00pm

GENERAL SESSION
THE NEED FOR CREATIVE APPROACHES TO ENSURE A TRAINED AND SKILLED WORKFORCE  
Traditional approaches for preparing a high-tech STEM workforce are not adequate alone to meet growing demand. Industry informed training and partnerships among secondary schools, community colleges, university systems including historically black colleges and universities (HSBCU’s), government, foundations and other support organizations are critical to ensure a workforce is available with skills and competencies to meet employers’ needs. In this panel, hear about innovative approaches to solving workforce demands, both within university anchored research parks and other community applications, and walk away with new ideas to implement in your community. 

Gabriella Gonzalez, PhD, Program Officer, Richard King Mellon Foundation  
Chris White, Vice Chairman and Southeast Regional Leader, Savills 
Jamal Lewis, Economic Opportunity Manager, Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, Georgia Institute of Technology
Moderator: Kevin Byrne, Past President, AURP; President and Chief Executive Officer, The University Financing Foundation

4:00pm - 4:30pm

GENERAL SESSION
NSF REGIONAL INNOVATION ENGINES PROGRAM AND BUILDER PLATFORM
Join us for an insightful session that will emphasize the importance of coalition building and the strategic development of tech hubs. NSF Representatives, Sarah Goforth and Joda Thongnopnua, will share effective strategies for navigating the proposal process and exploring how markets can strategically leverage tech engines and identify key focus areas to address urgent challenges.

Sarah Goforth, Program Director, Regional Innovation Engines, National Science Foundation   
Moderator: Brian Darmody, Chief Strategy Officer, AURP

4:30pm - 4:50pm

CLOSING REMARKS/NEW MEMBER RECOGNITION
AURP’s newest members will be celebrated. Organizations that have joined since the 2023 International Conference will be recognized and receive their membership certificate. Join us in welcoming our newest AURP members throughout the globe. #BuildingtheAURPNetwork

Allison Madden, Vice President, AURP; Corporate Secretary and Director of Operations, USF Research Park
Jeff Smith, Director, University Corporate Research Park, Michigan State University Research Foundation

5:00pm - 5:45pm

TRANSPORTATION TO BENTONVILLE: RETURN TO MOTTO HOTEL
The final motorcoach will depart by 5:00 pm.

Evening

Sponsor Hospitalities & Receptions  
All events hosted and organized by sponsors (approval required by AURP)    

INFORMAL GROUP DINE-AROUNDS 
All expenses are at individual expense. Spouses/significant others are invited to attend! 

AURP Pop-Up Concert: Featuring Me Like Bees (8:00pm - 9:30pm)
*Must have an AURP Badge to attend*
Sponsored by The Collaborative, University of Arkansas, Perkins&Will, MCB Science+Health, Stiletto: Make a Point  

Wednesday, November 13th
The Ledger (229 S Main St. Bentonville, AR 72712)

7:00am - 5:00pm

Registration Check-In Desk (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)

 7:00am - 8:00am

Continental Breakfast (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)

8:00am - 5:00pm

AURP: Partnering Sponsor Display Tables (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)

8:00am - 8:15am

BENTONVILLE: MORNING WELCOME (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)

Joe Allbright, Senior Director - Corporate Real Estate, Walmart

8:15am - 8:45am

GENERAL SESSION
CULTIVATING SUCCESS IN THE HEARTLAND (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
The Heartland is blossoming into a hub of innovation and growth and the long-term vision for a sustainable and prosperous future is setting the stage to create groundbreaking impacts on the community. Learn how Ross DeVol, President and Chief Executive Officer, Heartland Forward, and former Chief Research Officer for the Milken Institute, has accelerated the vision of revitalization and expanded the impact of research parks and innovation districts, transforming local and regional economies.

Ross DeVol, President and Chief Executive Officer, Heartland Forward 

8:45am - 9:15am

GENERAL SESSION
LIFE WORKS HERE: UNLOCKING THE FUTURE OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Explore the dynamic evolution of the NWA region with a focus on the area’s history and current projects and goals that are aimed at shaping its future. This presentation will address the challenges in uniting their communities and fostering workforce development while integrating the importance of local businesses and the university. 

Nelson Peacock, President & CEO, Northwest Arkansas Council

9:15am - 9:45am

GENERAL SESSION
ASSESSING AND EVALUATING INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS BEYOND REAL ESTATE (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Many regions are seeking ways to bolster their local and regional ecosystems.  To do this, it is important to know, in the most objective terms possible, the region’s strengths and weaknesses to identify actionable steps to achieve desired outcomes.  This need is especially great for small-to-midsize regions located outside major metro areas (Xurban) that seek to optimize their efforts to retain talent and support economic vibrancy.  More recently a number of government agencies - in the US and beyond - have launched programs with the specific intentions of bolstering the vibrancy of these communities, especially to promote national competitiveness. This session will consider recent studies which establish measurable criteria - both in the short and longer term - to evaluate external and internal investments.   One study is local, reflecting an assessment of where Arkansas’s research and industry innovation drivers open opportunities for collaboration.  The second study is global, reflecting an assessment of the vital role colleges, universities, and academic medical centers play as engines of learning, innovation, prosperity, and opportunity.

Bryan Barnhouse, President and CEO, Arkansas Research Alliance
Cullum Clark, Director, Bush Institute – SMU Economic Growth Initiative and Adjunct Professor of Economics  
Kevin Byrne, President and Chief Executive Officer, The University Financing Foundation

9:45am - 10:00am

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: HOW TO LEVERAGE PRIVATE CAPITAL TO ACCELERATE INNOVATION (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Walk (run, hike or bike) away with actionable ideas for your next project. This real-life case study follows the trail of the Food System expansion at K-State’s Olathe Innovation Campus. Your guides will share how they were enabled to move at the speed of business, the benefits of engaging partners early and the results of vetting and selling to collaborators and investors simultaneously.  

Ben Wolfe, PhD, Dean and Chief Executive Officer, KState Olathe Innovation Campus  
Lori Top, MBA, LEED AP, Vice President, VanTrust Real Estate  
Daniel Lacy, Vice President, Business Unit Leader, McCown Gordon Construction 

10:00am - 10:30am

NETWORKING BREAK

10:30am - 10:45am

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
DISCOVERING THE FUTURE OF RESEARCH PARKS WITH FLEXIBLE MASTER PLANNING AND STRATEGIC MARKETING (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
This session will explore how research parks can meet the needs of medtech and life science sectors, focusing on necessary resources like funding and talent, and the importance of flexible master planning. Thel Consulting and ISG will present case studies on tenant needs and innovative design strategies. The session will also share how to maintain a long-term vision through strategic partnerships and P3 models. 

Tung Nguyen, Partner, Thel Consulting, USD Discovery District
Ronna Poppens, Development Strategist, ISG 

10:45am - 11:15am

GENERAL SESSION
FAST.FORWARD:  A NEW MODEL FOR ACADEMIC SCIENCE FACILITIES (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Can science bridge the gap between institutions and communities? Academia hosts the world’s most sustainable science buildings, pioneering carbon neutrality and innovation while solving big questions for humanity.  However, these facilities are expensive to build and often sequestered from the public.  In response, Gensler, Thornton Tomasetti and Van Zelm developed Fast.Forward, a network of rapidly deployable modules that produce net-positive energy and act as decentralized, flexible, accessible field labs for place-based research and STEM education.    

Michael Kocher, AIA NCARB, Education Practice Leader, Gensler   
Meghan Webster, AIA NCARB, Studio Director, Principal, Gensler 
Moderator: Will Germain, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner, MCB Science & Health   

11:15am - 11:30am

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
TAPPING INTO TECH TRANSFER OFFICES: ATTRACTING VC INVESTMENT (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Learn strategic approaches that university systems can use to help attract friendly capital to support growth and innovation. Methods such as effective storytelling and compelling branding can help enhance a community and drive growth to your area.

Tracy Poole, Esq, Founder and Managing Partner, FortySix Venture Capital 

11:30am - 12:00pm

GENERAL SESSION
ELECTION NIGHT: WHAT IT MEANS FOR INNOVATION (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)  
Explore the impact of the 2024 elections how the change in the political landscape will influence funding, regulations and priorities within the innovation sector. Attendees will gain insights on how to navigate and leverage these changes to help foster and support their community and development. 

Michael L. Ledford, JD, President, Lewis-Burke Associates LLC
Moderator: Brian Darmody, CSO, AURP 

12:00pm - 12:30pm

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025: AURP PROGRAMS & EVENTS (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)   

Vickie Palmer, CEO, AURP
Allison Madden, Vice President, AURP; Corporate Secretary and Director of Operations, USF Research Park

12:30pm - 1:30pm

NETWORKING LUNCHEON

1:30pm - 2:15pm

CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS

ACADEMIC-INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS: BEST PRACTICES FROM THE WASHINGTON, DC METRO CAPITAL REGION (The Ledger - Sixth South)
Driving the technology economy through collaborative partnerships, these speakers will highlight the importance of relationship building to produce talent and industry connections at these two DC Metro place-based innovation communities: Fuse at Mason Square in Northern Virginia and the National Cybersecurity and Connectivity Learning Lab.  As satellite institutional facilities, discussion will include governance structures and community outreach strategies to shape their attraction and acceptance. 

John Kilborne, Vice President of Development, Redbrick LMD
Brian Naumick, Managing Director, Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate  
Adam Glaser, Managing Director, KPMG US
Moderator: Robert McClure, AIA, NCARB, Principal, Design Director, Page Southerland Page 

CONTINUITY OF COMMUNITY TO ACCELERATE INNOVATION (The Ledger - Multi-Purpose Room) 
The Rowen Foundation, Georgia Tech, and Portal Innovations, partners in the metro Atlanta life sciences ecosystem, join for a panel discussion on how their collaboration provides a “continuity of community” that accelerates growth by allowing companies to retain and deepen partnerships from startup through maturity. The outlook of life sciences in Georgia plus purpose-driven development offers scalable real estate solutions providing an environment where companies can innovate, grow, and thrive.

NEXT GEN TECH: DRIVING THE NEW WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE (The Ledger - First Floor Classroom) 
New technology impacts major sectors of our industry every day and the collaboration efforts help push these new efforts forward. Technology such as carbon capture and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing practices across these sectors to drive economic growth, reshaping industries and promoting sustainability. Learn how these developments impact their community and how their community ecosystem accelerates their growth and helps them thrive in this new age of technology.

Russ Zarras, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Fraunhofer USA 
Ngan Le, Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas 
Moderator: Dougan Sherwood, Partner, CIC Captains

2:15pm - 2:30pm

NETWORKING BREAK

2:30pm - 3:15pm

CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS

AUTONOMOUS TECHNOLOGIES FROM LAND, AIR AND SEA: HOW WILL THEY AFFECT MY PARK AND MY COMMUNITY? (The Ledger - First Floor Classroom) 
After years of promise, autonomous technologies are arriving: from drone delivery of needed medicines to rural areas, self-driving taxis and truck fleets, to new ways to protect our country. Research parks are home to university research centers and autonomous tech companies serving as test beds in demonstrating advances in this tech sector. The AURP Rural Autonomous Innovation Network (RAIN) is supporting the growth of small autonomous tech businesses to tackle the challenges and opportunities of advancing technology in rural communities. Learn about these and other initiatives to support research parks, innovation districts and companies using autonomous technology across the country.

Lane Patterson, Highway Ventures, Bentonville, Arkansas  
Phil Sizer, Associate VP, Office of Research and Innovation, Texas Tech, Lubbock Texas  
Chris Kaselemis, AICP, Director, Department of Economic Development, St. Mary’s County Maryland, AeroPark Innovation District
Kinsley Jordan, Director, UAS Angel Network
Moderator: Brian Darmody, Chief Strategy Officer, AURP

INNOVATION ENVIRONMENTS & COMMUNITIES (The Ledger - Sixth South)
Innovation and the development of R&D hubs take place in reimagined spaces. Through case study storytelling, these panelists from The Berkeley Space Center, a 36-acre hub at NASA Research Park, and NC State Centennial Campus will share their best practices on creating flexible development frameworks for the evolution of campus space to foster industry-university collaborations. From an established campus, to a newer park perspective, gain knowledge on key structuring partnerships for placemaking and future-proofing innovation ecosystems.

Leslie Ashor, Director of Science + Technology, HOK  
Kristina Covall, Project Manager, SKS Partners  
Brian Jencek, Director of Planning, HOK
Mark Schmidt, Associate Vice Chancellor, Partnerships, NC State University
Alicia Knight, Associate Vice Chancellor, NC State University  
Moderator: Keisha Demps, Director of Partnerships, Centennial Campus, NC State University

FROM TRADITIONAL RESEARCH PARK TO BLENDED KNOWLEDGE COMMUNITY: THE STORIES OF 3 PUBLIC LAND GRANT UNIVERSITIES (The Ledger - Multi-Purpose Room)
Innovation districts are the evolution and continuum of the research park model. Shared by three AURP member communities and their pertinent network professionals, learn how universities are advancing innovation ecosystems through regional partnerships and strategic programming, leading to startups and corporate collaborations. Colleagues representing collaborations and experiences with Michigan State University Research Foundation, Purdue University Research Foundation, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison/University Research Park, explore unique approaches to economic development and innovation to enhance global competitiveness, especially in underserved areas, bolstering industry partnerships to impact job creation while considering real estate strategies to foster innovation in support your university’s mission through optimized land use and revenue generation.  

Paul Seitz, Director, Strategic Initiatives, UW Madison
David Washburn, Executive Director, Michigan State University Research Foundation
Gintas Civinskas, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Associate, Ayers Saint Gross   
Moderator: Stephen Coulston, Principal, Perkins&Will 

3:15pm - 3:45pm

NETWORKING BREAK

3:45pm  - 4:30pm

CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS

REDEFINING THE TRADITIONAL (The Ledger - First Floor Classroom)
In today's rapidly evolving world, "Redefining the Traditional" is essential for fostering innovation and driving economic growth. By integrating a research park model and entrepreneurial ecosystems into traditional university assets, institutions can identify new paths to innovation, explore unconventional ideas, embrace change, and adapt to emerging trends. Case studies highlight the University of Arizona's transformational projects leveraging innovative collaborations that redefine traditional paradigms. Similarly, the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina (RTP) has been an economic driver in North Carolina for 65 years and is finalizing its RTP 3.0 strategy to reinvent itself once again. This strategy aims to address a projected 50% population growth in the Triangle Region over the next 40 years by growing equitably and sustainably. RTP will repurpose its 7,000 acres to maintain attractiveness for research while providing housing, open spaces, and amenities within a context of sustainability, affordability, and accessibility.

Scott Levitan, President & CEO, Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina   
Ken Marcus, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, UA Tech Parks
Moderator: Allison Madden, Vice President, AURP; Corporate Secretary and Director of Operations, USF Research Park, University of South Florida

INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS: DRIVING GROWTH OF INCUBATORS, RESEARCH PARKS AND INNOVATION DISTRICTS AROUND THE WORLD (The Ledger - Multi-Purpose Room)
Deep dive into the high-level partnerships on a global scale with insights from several key players in the industry. This session will showcase various international case studies and allow attendees to gain valuable perspectives on moving people and projects across borders. Leverage your global network by attending this session of successful international collaborators. 

Arno Meerman, CEO and Founder, University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN)  
Russ Zarras, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Fraunhofer USA 
Joseph Huang, Executive Director, Stanford, Co-Vice President, NACRO
Moderator: Brian Darmody, Chief Strategy Officer, AURP 

MOBILIZING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INSTITUTION AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS: A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH (The Ledger - Sixth South)
Workforce Development and Talent Attraction are critical for all communities and central to research and innovation districts.  Aligning the workforce with industry needs is essential for economic development and community impact and often hinges on leveraging transferrable skills.  In this interactive session, participants will learn how to develop their local workforce by effectively leveraging data and partnering with institutions, community and technical colleges, and industry.  We will highlight concepts and best practices related to determining what data is relevant to workforce development, including a case study of Northwest Arkansas Community College's new Trails Trade School, which leverages commercial partners for direction and feedback to support the region’s growing outdoor recreation industry.  Our practitioners will discuss how lessons learned from the Trails Trade School can be applied in your region to help you collaborate with industry leaders, funding organizations, and environmental stewards to accelerate innovation in workforce development, industry standards, curriculum development, human capital, and economic investment.

Laura O’Blenis, President and CEO, Stiletto: Make a Point  
Megan Bolinder, Executive Director, Trails and Trade Division, Northwest Arkansas Community College  
Moderator: Jordan Peterson, Chief Operations Officer, Collaborative Real Estate 

4:30pm - 4:45pm

NETWORKING BREAK

4:45pm - 5:00pm

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
LEVERAGING CREATIVE STUDENTS TO GROW CAMPUS ENTREPRENEURSHIP (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Vibrant student entrepreneurship programs are essential to connect research commercialization activities taking place at universities and research parks to students who will comprise the innovation and startup workforce. The University of Texas Permian Basin recently launched a Student-Made Store to provide creative students at the University with an online marketplace to sell their original works, opening doors to entrepreneurship for artists, makers, and creators often overlooked in traditional student entrepreneurship programs.    

Brian Shedd, PhD, Executive Director, Office of Innovation and Commercialization, The University of Texas Permian Basin  
Lindsay Reeth, Co-Founder, Student-Made 

5:00pm - 5:15pm

INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
CREATING AN ECOSYSTEM OF INNOVATION (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
The Innovation Foundation at Oklahoma State University integrates its strategic priorities within both the university and the community, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation. By facilitating applied research from concept to commercialization, The Innovation Foundation functions independently of any college or department, intentionally fostering interdisciplinary collaboration – a cornerstone of Oklahoma State University’s strategic plan. By bridging academia and industry, The Innovation Foundation promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, and technological advancement for economic growth and societal progress.

Elizabeth Pollard, CEO, The Innovation Foundation at Oklahoma State University 

5:15pm - 5:45pm

SIPS & SIZZLE (The Ledger - Sixth Floor Patio)
Before our Awards of Excellence in Innovation Ceremony, breathe in the crisp fall air, discussing the week’s interactions and takeaways. Appetizers and adult beverages will be shared to enjoy this relaxing tradition.

5:45pm - 6:30pm

AURP 28th ANNUAL AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE in INNOVATION (The Ledger - Sixth Floor)
Stay for a drink and celebrate our industry leaders! AURP will share the stories of innovation and celebrate those worthy of our 2024 Awards of Excellence.
Receiving one of AURP’s Awards of Excellence is the greatest honor bestowed at our conference each year. These awards recognize achievements, cutting-edge and innovative park companies and exceptional community leaders who are lumineers and blazing trails within our innovation ecosystem. 

Awards of Excellence: Outstanding Research Park or Innovation District  • Career Achievement • Innovation • Leadership

Sponsor Hospitalities & Receptions  
All events hosted and organized by sponsors (approval required by AURP)    

INFORMAL GROUP DINE-AROUNDS 
All expenses are at individual expense. Spouses/significant others are invited to attend!

Thursday, November 14th

Morning

 OPTIONAL TOUR (Included in registration fee)

• The Collaborative, University of Arkansas (9:00am - 10:30am)
• Crystal Bridges, Museum of Art (On your own time - Opens at 11am)

9:00am - 12:00pm

Buzzing New Trails
Welcome to the Bentonville, the Mountain Bike Capital of the World!  Bring or rent a bike (or e-bike) and join us on a short group ride from the Motto by Hilton - Bentonville to the Airship Coffee open air café in the woods at the Coler MTB Reserve.  This leisurely, paved out-and-back is 5 miles.  Once there, you can chill and relax at the Airship Coffee open air café and/or experience the surrounding single track mountain bike trails.  The base ride to the café is ideal for street clothes and a basic city bike.  However, the MTB trails are technical and will require a mountain bike.  We also ask that you bring/rent a helmet.

Links to some of the bike rentals near our host venue/hotel:
Phat Tire
Spoke Adventures
Mojo Cycling
Smiley Bike Rental
OZ NWA