Higher education and community leaders discuss importance of innovative collaboration

Research & Innovation

Kelly Raaz | September 27, 2018

Business, research and community leaders gathered Wednesday night for a roundtable discussion on Innovation Leadership as part of Innovation Week at Texas State.

The Innovation Leadership panel, moderated by Adriana Cruz, President of Greater San Marcos Partnership, discussed the impact that higher education, research, commercialization, and innovation have on the Texas Innovation Corridor’s future. One occurring theme became apparent: the key to successful research and innovation is collaboration. 

• John Thomaides – Mayor, San Marcos, TX
  “The synergistic relationships between the City of San Marcos, Texas State University and local businesses are important to make great ideas come alive and create an environment for success. The geographic location of San Marcos is a huge advantage and acts as a magnet to attract great potential for the future. The innovative district we’ve created is able to bring many different parts together for the success of all. Many mayors have told me they would love a university like Texas State in their city as they see the impact and value it provides to the San Marcos region. ”
• Stephen Frayser – Executive Director of Science, Technology, and Advanced Research (STAR) Park, Texas State University
  “It is part of Texas State’s DNA to explore and collaborate with other sectors in the university. STAR Park is a catalyst for change and an enabler for innovation, commercialization and partnerships that support the efforts of Texas State students, faculty and local businesses. These partnerships position the cutting-edge research coming out of Texas State for the betterment of humanity.” 
• Dr. Jennifer Irvin – Director of Materials, Science, Engineering, and Commercialization (MSEC) program, Texas State University
  “Cross-disciplinary relationships between areas in Texas State are key for innovation and creates marketable resources for San Marcos. Many students choose to stay in San Marcos after graduation to work for local businesses or start businesses of their own; it is a mutually beneficial relationship. As the number of MSEC graduates increase, so does the number of companies choosing this region as the place to start their businesses. They recognize Texas State students as a valuable asset.”
• Paul Brown – President of Bautex Systems, San Marcos
  “The presence of the Ingram School of Engineering and McCoy College of Business provides immense opportunities for student and faculty research. The private sector understands the value of reaching out to students as the innovation coming out of universities presents a positive shift in the way companies operate. Bautex Systems is looking forward to partnering with more Texas State students and I’m excited to see what comes to fruition in the future.