06/13/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/13/2025 19:29
Article by Beth Miller Photos by David Barczak and Kathy F. Atkinson June 13, 2025
Sometimes a text message, an email or a quick phone call will do. But there are definitely times when it's important to be on location to meet in 3D.
That's why University of Delaware leaders have made "UD Day in D.C." a priority. Every other year, several dozen UD researchers and students make the trip to the nation's capital to explain the impact of federally funded research and highlight its role in driving innovation, economic growth and scientific discovery.
It's an especially important endeavor now, as federal funding for research faces unprecedented uncertainty, making it critical to reinforce the bipartisan commitment to scientific progress and innovation. On Thursday, June 12, U.S. Sen. Chris Coons hosted the seventh UD Day in D.C. in the Hart Senate Office Building. The theme was "Innovation for the Nation."
Faculty members and students filled the room with exhibits and models, demonstrating and explaining the ways federally funded support has made important advances possible in a wide range of disciplines. They met with members of Congress, congressional committee staff members, UD alumni and other invited guests.
"This is an incredible event, where we see the innovation of the University of Delaware on full display," said U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride, who serves on the Science, Space and Technology Committee in the House. "UD is not simply an educational institution; it's a hub for economic activity and for innovation across sectors of society. You see how UD is leading the way in space exploration, in defense, in agriculture and health care. It's really exciting to witness just a glimpse of the lifesaving and world-enhancing research happening around UD. Delaware is lucky to have this legacy institution as a central hub of education, research and economic activity."
UD President Dennis Assanis thanked Delaware's congressional delegation for its long history of support for UD, including the state's senior Sen. Coons, the recently retired Sen. Tom Carper and newly elected Sen. Lisa Blunt-Rochester and Rep. McBride.
"Research transcends political divisions," Assanis said. "After World War II, the United States developed an incredibly successful model for university research, which developed into a dynamic partnership among academia, government and the private sector. This collaboration propelled the U.S. into an era of scientific and technological success that has been unparalleled in human history. This has brought prosperity to the nation and has transformed the lives of Americans for generations. It has also made the United States a destination for the brightest minds from around the world."
Research has improved the quality of life of Americans, strengthened national security, enhanced the United States' global influence and served as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation, Assanis said.