The UB Regional Institute is an interdisciplinary research and policy center applying evidence-based analysis to issues affecting regions. With a focus on the binational Buffalo Niagara region, the institute leverages its expertise, capacities and partnerships to ask critical questions, inform debate and guide change.
A major research and public service division of the University at Buffalo, the UB Regional Institute is a unit of the UB Law School. In addition to university faculty and academic researchers, the institute’s partners include governments, foundations, businesses, civic groups and nonprofits.
Guiding the UB Regional Institute is a five-person Advisory Council, chaired by James A. Gardner, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at UB Law School. Other members are Brian Carter, Dean of the UB School of Architecture and Planning; Marsha S. Henderson, UB Vice President for External Affairs; Gregory Michaelidis, Director of Research and Strategic Analysis, Office of the UB President; and Bruce D. McCombe, Dean of the UB College of Arts and Sciences.
Founded in 1997 as the Institute for Local Governance and Regional Growth by John B. Sheffer II, a former New York State senator and assemblyman, the institute has established itself as a leading resource on regional issues. The vision to promote stronger regions with sound analysis remains an essential foundation as the institute broadens its research scope to the national and international level.