<p><a href="http://www.siue.edu/">Southern Illinois University Edwardsville</a> an important economic engine for our region. Through forging strong partnerships with area business, the University had a total <a href="/id0904f67a80674ef6">economic impact of $471 million</a>, based on a study released in Oct. 2010.</p>
<p>Now more than ever, SIUE is a critical force in the U.S. push to turn around the economy. We offer <a href="http://www.siue.edu/academics/degrees.shtml">educational programs</a> that train leaders, emphasizing our core values of citizenship, excellence, integrity, openness and wisdom. We provide jobs for university employees, as well as thousands in the community through our many projects. More than half of our graduates live and work in the area, providing a skilled labor force and adding to the region’s vitality.</p>
<p>SIUE works closely with business and shape the region’s <a href="/id0904f67a80674ef6">economic impact</a>, through <a href="http://www.siue.edu/universitypark/">University Park</a>, SIUE’s 330-acre research and technology park. The park is home to the <a href="http://www.siue.edu/ethanolresearch/">National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center</a>, the <a href="http://www.siue.edu/pharmacy/">SIUE School of Pharmacy</a>, the <a href="http://www.edglenchamber.com/">Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce</a> and more, and the future home of the <a href="http://www.redcross.org/">American Red Cross</a> Blood Manufacturing And Testing Facility.</p>
<p>In order to enhance the relationship between the University faculty and staff and area businesses, four years ago, the University introduced <a href="http://www.siue.edu/community/business/siueday.shtml">SIUE Day</a>, a fundraising initiative aimed at providing a convenient opportunity for members of the community and University employees to help support the institution’s efforts. The University works closely with businesses in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon, as well as Metro East business.</p>
<p>SIUE works closely with <a href="http://www.siue.edu/community/business/regioinalleaders.shtml">regional economic development leaders</a> to further community outreach and research initiatives.</p>