10/20/98

ATHENS, Ohio External funding support has increased for the second consecutive year at Ohio University, according to figures recently announced by President Robert Glidden.

Ohio University received a record $35.2 million from external funding sources in fiscal 1998, up from $34.4 million in fiscal 1997 and $30.7 million in 1996.

External funding comes from federal and state agencies and the private sector for research and nonresearch activities on campus. Federal sources provided 56 percent of the external funding in fiscal 1998.

"I am very pleased with the continuing growth in the external awards received by the university, particularly those targeted toward the support of the faculty's research, scholarship and creative activities," said Carol Blum, interim vice president for research and graduate studies at Ohio University.

The biggest increase in external funding came in support of research. Funding rose to $17.5 million in fiscal 1998, a 4 percent increase over 1997 figures and a 30 percent increase since 1996.

These increases reflect the hard work and persistence of the faculty and students and dedication of the staff of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. They are the key components to this story of success," Blum said.

The university received 485 awards from external agencies and businesses in fiscal year 1998, up 4 percent from last year and 24 percent from 1996.

Support for nonresearch activities, which include instructional and public service activities, increased slightly to $17.6 million from $17.5 million.

In other research news, Glidden announced last week during his State of the University address the decision to divide the Office of Graduate Studies and Research into two separate offices. This will allow for a more focused effort in graduate studies to ensure Ohio University's continued success in graduate education, Blum said.

As part of the split, an associate provost in graduate studies will be appointed within the academic year.

"The separation of these offices demonstrates President Glidden's strong commitment to achieve our research and graduate studies missions," Blum said. "It has become clear that each of these areas has matured to the point where continued growth and excellence demand a focused effort."