In early September, the University of Idaho took on a federally funded research center to explore and work to solve problems facing rural communities.
One of only four federally funded development centers aimed at working with rural communities in the country, the Western Rural Development Center is now hosted by UI after having been associated with Utah State University since 1999.
Paul Lewin, a former associate professor and current UI Extension Specialist and Director of the Rural Studies and Digital Economies programs, has taken on the role of director for the WRDC. His past as an extension specialist and his years of experience researching, aiding, and bettering rural communities inspired Lewin to take on this role.
“This role allows me to continue my research and extension efforts while increasing my collaboration with faculty, local leaders, and stakeholders in the West to create sustainable, long-term solutions. It’s an incredible responsibility, but it’s also deeply aligned with the work I’ve been passionate about throughout my career,” Lewin said.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the WRDC will receive money to invest in research, development, and community connections.
Congress approved the $700,000 allotment for this fiscal year. It is primarily used to hire administration teams to strengthen the center before launching into upcoming projects.
Located at the Boise campus, this center will also work toward the general education of community members. The WRDC is committed to raising awareness of grant opportunities, promoting positive policies, and offering opportunities for students to get involved.
The other three centers include the Southern Rural Development Center, which partnered with Mississippi State University; the Northeast Rural Development Center at Penn State; and the North Central Rural Development Center, currently at Purdue University. Together, the four centers often work collaboratively to make nationwide connections and economic changes.
Regarding collaboration, Lewin is passionate about the forthcoming connection between the center and the community. When asked about specific projects he’s looking forward to, his response revolved around small business development and job creation, access to essential services, community leadership and capacity building, improved stake-holder decision making and youth retention and workforce development.
The significance of this new partnership is great for UI as regional centers rarely change hands, as seen by the nearly 30-year residence at USU. It will offer an opportunity for new relationships and resources that will strengthen nearby rural communities.
“For the university, the center will create a platform for interdisciplinary research and collaboration across land-grant institutions, expanding our reach beyond individual departments,” Lewin continues. “For the Western communities, the effects will be far-reaching. Through initiatives that create jobs and support local economies, we aim to strengthen the fabric of rural life.”
Paige Wilton can be reached at [email protected].