July 20, 2016

Dear University of Miami Community,

The University of Miami holds a unique geographic position in the hemisphere, situated to bridge the boundaries of cultures, nationalities, and disciplines. As part of President Frenk’s call to chart a new roadmap for the University’s future, a working group has drafted the Hemispheric Innovation Hub initiative, one of eight draft initiatives to capitalize on UM’s incredible strengths.

The Hemispheric Innovation Hub outlines a vision for the University of Miami as a catalyst for innovation, new ventures, and product development. Recognizing the spirit of entrepreneurship at the University, the draft proposal includes providing increased seed funding for startups, developing more facilities to support innovation, and building a team to leverage external resources and pave the way for developing innovative ideas.

The University of Miami includes innovative work across all campuses and throughout our alumni community, and we want your input on this draft initiative.

• How can UM best position itself as a hub for innovation throughout the hemisphere?
• What existing services on campus should be expanded and how?

You can submit your comments on the Roadmap Initiative website, on social media using the hashtag #UMRoadmap, or via email. Also, mark your calendars for our Roadmap web chat on August 24 at 1 p.m.

This is a chance for each of us to shape the future of UM—we really want to hear from you.

Office of the President

About the Draft Roadmap Initiatives

Following President Frenk’s inauguration, small working groups were launched to inform the Roadmap to Our New Century and explore ways the University of Miami could foster transformation, connection, and reinvention as an institution. The eight draft Roadmap initiatives are now open to the University community for discussion, debate, and refinement. In the fall of 2016 a series of meetings will be held across the University to share the feedback we have received and discuss the path toward implementation. We welcome comments on any of the Roadmap Initiatives at any time through the website, by using #UMRoadmap on social media, or via email.