A vision for regionalism with a rural focus
 Dr. Leonard Faulk, founding director of the Center, is a member of the Advisory Committee for the Governor's Commission on Local Government Efficiency and Effectiveness |
Dr. Leonard Faulk, professor emeritus of political science and former Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs, successfully applied to the Gebbie Foundation of Jamestown, N.Y., in 1997 for a grant to form the Center for Regional Advancement at SUNY Fredonia.
His vision was to create a catalyst in bringing about public understanding of the concept of regionalism -- or sharing between municipalities--and finding ways to energize the local economy.
Dr. Faulk explained, “As an institution of higher education, SUNY Fredonia is dedicated to creating a rational climate for problem-solving. We want the college to be a leader in the development of regional governance, to do the research, implement the models, and really become a resource for this state and across the country on how to go about this.”
Through Dr. Faulk's leadership, the CRA has been designated as one of eight university research centers that serve as technical assistance centers for the NYS Shared Municipal Services Program.