Boca Raton, Fla. – September 18, 2026 -- The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) has designated Florida Atlantic University (FAU) as an Innovation & Economic Prosperity (IEP) University, placing it among just over 90 higher education institutions nationwide to hold the credential.
FAU secures national recognition after review of over 1,000 stakeholders
The designation followed an independent, rigorous review process that engaged more than 1,000 internal and external stakeholders, including students, alumni, faculty, community partners, local employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofits and public agencies. The IEP status recognizes universities that collaborate with public and private sector partners to drive economic development through innovation, entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and workforce development.
Survey data shows strong local economic buy-in
According to feedback gathered during the review, 92.1% of students agreed that FAU supports the development and commercialization of technology, while 72% to 80% of surveyed residents agreed the university positively impacts the regional economy. FAU President Adam Hasner noted that 80% of the university's graduates stay in South Florida after graduation.
Internship program creates 100-plus paid roles in first semester
Hasner's President's Internship Program for Community Impact, launched in spring 2026, created more than 100 paid student internships in government and nonprofit sectors during its inaugural semester, funded through philanthropic support and community partnerships.
FAU targets deeper alignment with its 2031 strategic plan
The IEP self-study identified additional growth opportunities, with a key priority being alignment between FAU's economic development efforts and its five-year strategic plan, "2031FAU: Where Tomorrow Begins," which centers on student success, innovation and geographic advantages. APLU President Waded Cruzado said public universities play an indispensable role in economic advancement through talent cultivation, research breakthroughs and business development.