KENNESAW, Ga. | Sep 29, 2021

Kennesaw State University has taken the next steps to build and expand its interdisciplinary collaborations with external partners through the recent addition of Tyler Reinagel as associate vice president for economic development in the Office of Research.

Reinagel is responsible for creating, implementing, and sustaining community and industry partnership initiatives for the University and specifically, the strategic goals for research and economic development.

“Drawing the connections between research and its applied value and potential for the betterment of communities requires a position in which I can properly assess both sides,” he said. “Whether that is in consulting the University departments themselves or simply meeting with the development authorities of local cities, working in the Office of Research provides an ideal position for this work.”

Reinagel, who previously served as director of planning and research for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, will develop and lead initiatives and programs in concert with industry and community members to address their unique challenges and needs. This can be in the form of entrepreneurial opportunities for KSU faculty and students, joint ventures, and business development with industry partners and city/county governments, and/or community outreach efforts with nonprofit organizations, schools, and other entities. KSU’s Office of Community Engagement, and its assistant director, Kimberly Henghold, will also be a part of the Office of Research under Reinagel’s leadership.

“We are excited to have Tyler and Kimberly join the Office of Research,” said Phaedra Corso, vice president for research. “Tyler’s experience in public administration and economic development and Kimberly’s expertise in civic engagement and community outreach are assets not only to KSU, but our local and regional communities. We look forward to seeing the expansion of meaningful community and economic partnerships that will result.”

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.