The continuous cycle of poverty places a tremendous burden on citizens who are poor and on the economic vibrancy of the communities in which they reside. We know that persistent poverty hurts the economy of the rural South and will continue to do so until the region gains the ability to produce and sustain wealth.

Therefore, with full support from campus administration as one of the University’s top priorities, the Initiative on Poverty and the Economy has been created. Utilizing the unique talents of UGA’s research, teaching, and service faculty, our goal is to create sustainable activities designed to address issues of persistent poverty specific to the working and nonworking poor. We hope to motivate civically engaged students, identify and promote public policy, and work in collaboration on campus and throughout the state and region to improve both economic well-being and community prosperity.

In the tradition of a land-grant University, this initiative truly reflects UGA’s commitment to the mission of serving our society. Poverty is a critical issue for the people of our state and region. I welcome your involvement in the Initiative on Poverty and the Economy.

Sincerely,

Art Dunning