Daniel Curran receives regional volunteer leadership award from Dayton Development Coalition
The Dayton Development Coalition has named Daniel J. Curran, president of the University of Dayton, the Dayton region's most outstanding volunteer citizen for 2006 for his efforts in securing more than $55 million in Ohio Third Frontier Project grants for the Miami Valley.
“Dr. Curran has led the University of Dayton and the UD Research Institute to pursue cutting-edge technology research and commercialization opportunities,” according to a proclamation. “Dr. Curran provided critical vision and leadership in developing the Dayton region Third Frontier strategy for economic development."
The Ohio Third Frontier Project is an effort to build world-class research capability, develop new products and finance advanced manufacturing technologies in the state.
In December, The Ohio Third Frontier Commission awarded a $28 million state grant to the University of Dayton and a host of partner organizations to establish the Institute for Development and Commercialization of Advanced Sensor Technology. The institute will include a facility to house academic, industry and federal labs and will be the anchor tenant for Dayton's Tech Town development.
“I'm honored to receive this award, but the recognition belongs to the University of Dayton -- particularly our strong corps of world-class researchers,” Curran said. “It's part of UD's mission to be a community partner, to work collaboratively with those on campus and in the community to advance our region.’
In the Dayton region, Curran focuses on economic development and high-tech issues. He chairs the Wright Brothers Institute board and serves on nearly two dozen others, including the Dayton Development Coalition, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, National Composite Center and Miami Valley Research Foundation. In the state, he's a member of the Ohio Aerospace and Advisory Council. He's also testified before the Base Realignment and Closure Commission about expanding the capabilities of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
