HISTORY

In August 1994, Delta State University (DSU) made a new commitment to public service in its home region --the Mississippi Delta -- an area of pervasive, chronic rural poverty and extensive economic underdevelopment.  DSU, through the Center, is showing that institutions of higher learning must not be isolated ivory towers but a driving force to help support community and economic development.

The Center represents a departure from "business as usual" in the Delta. The Center's philosophy is that positive change will occur if action is taken with and by Deltans through the community development process. We believe people will support programs, projects and activities, which they help create. The Center provides a point of focus for DSU's outreach, by partnering with regional organizations and communities and bringing businesses, citizens, educational leaders, public officials, institutions of higher education, and faculty together to develop innovative solutions to problems.

Since 1994, the Center has received more than $42,000,000 of total external funding.  The Center is bringing the opportunity for Deltans to learn how to unite to develop a vision and take action to transform their communities into places where people will choose to live and work.  

"Building and Empowering Relationships that Strengthen Communities"

This page is maintained by:  Kristen Pyron