ODU at Work
Old Dominion University's location within Hampton Roads uniquely situates it as a community resource and tool, as well as a vehicle for service. With a population of 1.7 million, Hampton roads is the 36th largest metropolitan area in the United States. The university contributes more than $1 billion in annual impact to the regional economy.
See how ODU is engaged in Hampton Roads and in the world:
Climate Change/Sea Level Rise
ODU's Climate Change and Sea Level Rise Initiative (CCSLRI) facilitates research and education in all aspects of climate change and sea level rise. Located in the region that is second only to New Orleans in sea level rise impact, the university focuses special emphasis on adaptation, coastal engineering and the psychology and public health implications of rising waters. The University also consults with regional leaders to inform their response to the issue and works with researchers and educators around the world.
Economic Diversification
One of every two dollars in the southeastern Virginia economy comes from federal government through military, federal labs, and space exploration among other initiatives. In fact, ODU has quantified this reality for more than a decade in the annual State of the Region report. The region has long been concerned about this economic dependence and ODU has shared its resources and expertise to explore other potential underpinnings of the regional economy.
Health Care
Few issues will have as much economic and social impact in the decades to come than health care and few institutions are as qualified and resourced to address the implications of major public health issues such as obesity, diabetes and oral health. The university is advancing health research through global and interdisciplinary collaborations such as those through bioelectrics and nanobiotechnology.
Education Equity
In collaboration with campus and community partners, The Office of Community Engagement is assisting assuring equity of access, instruction, and assessment in education. Through interdisciplinary initiatives, the University seeks to prepare future educators and educate current professionals to maximize learning for all students.
Military Transitions
One in four ODU students is military-affiliated whether on active duty, in the reserve, retired or as a member of a military family. The university specializes in helping military-connected students enhance their educations and transition from service to retirement. Considerable research is dedicated to study of military families as they transition from one duty station to another.
Volunteerism, Community Service and Partnerships
Students, Faculty/Staff and Alumni of Old Dominion University give back to the local and global community by lending their time and talents in various ways. The University supports these endeavors by creating mutually beneifical partnerships to join with the community in combating some of our area's and society's most pressing issues.
