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ASPIRE

Advancing State Priorities, Igniting Regional Economies

¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ is dedicated to shaping Ohio’s future by aligning education with the evolving needs of our communities and workforce. Through ASPIRE—Advancing State Priorities, Igniting Regional Economies—we connect academic excellence with real-world impact, supporting critical industries, strengthening regional capacity, and driving economic growth statewide. Our engagements span industry, economic development, innovation-driven entrepreneurship and commercialization, and all levels of government—ensuring our work remains relevant, collaborative, and aligned with both public and private priorities. 

ASPIRE also serves as a platform for ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ engagement in leadership, advocacy, and public service. By participating in experiential learning opportunities, ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs gain firsthand insight into state and local policy, industry challenges, and community development efforts—preparing them to lead with purpose and integrity. Rooted in Miami's code of Love and Honor, ASPIRE exemplifies our commitment to meaningful, mission-driven impact across Ohio and beyond.

Partnerships and Economy

Randi Thomas and Ande Durojaiye with Butler Tech representative in building with sign in background

Industry, Government, and Community Partners

ASPIRE engages with Ohio’s businesses, elected officials, and communities to tap into the talent and resources needed to spur workforce development, solve real-world challenges, and fuel economic growth—backed by the drive and innovation of ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ.

Uptown Oxford, historical buildings and a red brick street

Economic Development

ASPIRE positions ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ as a leader in Ohio for advancing economic growth and supporting workforce efforts that promote opportunity, well-being, and a thriving quality of life in the communities where we live, work, and learn.

Fisher Innovation College@Elm

The Fisher Innovation College@Elm Workforce Development Center is a model public-private partnership, leveraging ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ and Oxford’s vibrant arts community to drive economic growth. With dedicated concierge services for startups, the center supports small business development and helps attract and retain talent across Oxford, Butler County, and Southwest Ohio.

college at elm building with sunburst shining through from roof

Government Relations Network

The Government Relations Network exposes ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs of all majors to government and government-related professions. The GRN provides opportunities to attend conferences in the nation's and state's capitols, build networks with alumni and public officials, and become engaged citizens dedicated to advancing ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ, Ohio, and our global community.

aspire ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs walking in hallway of state house

Strategic Initiatives

Polytech

The ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ polytechnic campus will address workforce needs of the state of Ohio, prepare ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs to solve current and emerging challenges through applied learning and work-based experience, and help promote socioeconomic mobility in southwest Ohio and across the state.

Work+

Work+ is an innovative program that allows ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs to earn a degree while gaining real-world experience and having their tuition paid. Students work approximately 24 hours a week with partner employers, who benefit from reduced turnover and a pipeline of motivated, career-focused talent.

Advanced Manufacturing Hub

The Advanced Manufacturing Workforce and Innovation Hub is an industry-driven partnership between ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ, Butler Tech, and Butler County designed to build a skilled workforce and fuel regional economic growth. It offers flexible pathways—from credentials and upskilling to degrees in robotics and electro-mechanical engineering—aligned with manufacturing sector needs.

Hometown Talent Initiative

The Hometown Talent Initiative builds workforce pathways that expose young people to opportunities in Ohio communities. By building strong partnerships, the program aims to reinvest in these communities and inspire ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs to become the next generation of local leaders and workforce talent.

Advanced Air Mobility

In collaboration with CVG and Butler County airports, ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ is spearheading Advanced Air Mobility innovation by integrating next-gen EVOTL technology, cutting-edge research, and immersive ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ experiences to position Oxford as a hub for the future of air transportation.

Quantum Computing

¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ and the Cleveland Clinic have partnered to create a quantum computing workforce in Ohio, including Ohio’s first quantum computing undergraduate degree program, combining science, technology, and entrepreneurship with specialized discipline tracks. This partnership aims to position Ohio as a global leader in quantum computing while driving innovation in healthcare and technology.

MiamiTHRIVE

Inspired by the changing landscape of higher education, ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµ launched a new strategic planning initiative to transform and reinvigorate the university. In fall 2023, Miami began identifying opportunities to strengthen its teaching, research, and service missions, and to reimagine itself to serve dynamic needs and interests of ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓÆµs now and in the future. This work has resulted in 55 broad ideas that are being reviewed to evaluate the cost-benefit of each, as well as opportunities for synergy and collaboration.

illustrated pattern of Miami buildings from the Oxford and Regional campuses

Contact Information

Old Manse
410 East High Street
Oxford, OH 45056