About Us

The Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP) is a dynamic, non-partisan organization based at the University, dedicated to improving local, state, and national public policy by addressing complex issues, ensuring the best outcomes for individuals and communities. By bridging the gap between academia, policymakers, practitioners, and the community, we champion fair, effective, and just public policy through applied research and community engagement.

Harnessing the expertise of students, staff, and faculty, the IMRP shapes and enhances public policy on municipal and regional concerns through such strategies as public education and dialogue, published reports and policy papers, pilot program design and implementation, and fostering collaborations among universities, governments, private organizations, and communities.

We aim to be a prominent and respected presence throughout Connecticut, recognized for our commitment to promoting and implementing just and effective public policy. Upholding non-partisan, evidence-based practices, our dedicated staff conducts and disseminates its research with the highest ethical standards. Responsive to social and community needs, the IMRP initiates and sponsors conferences, forums, and professional training to enhance public policy quality in Connecticut and across the nation.

History

The Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP) became the successor organization to the Connecticut Institute for Municipal Studies (CIMS) in 2002 when leaders in the legislature and executive branch called upon Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) to build upon CIMS's mission in an academic setting. In the 2021 legislative session of the Connecticut General Assembly, the Institute was relocated to the UConn Hartford campus as part of the School of Public Policy.

Mission Statement

To effectively inspire and sustain a just, equitable, and inclusive Connecticut through independent research and evaluation, public policy analysis and development, and community engagement.

Vision Statement

A just, equitable, and inclusive society.

Core Values

INTEGRITY

  • Is committed to excellence
  • Is honest, motivated, and professional
  • Is respectful and fair
  • Is dedicated to the Institute’s goals

OBJECTIVITY

  • Is fair, nonpartisan, focused, organized, and purposeful
  • Relies on evidence-based research
  • Provides analysis and expertise where needed

COLLABORATION

  • Works collaboratively and cooperatively with colleagues
  • Promotes colleagues’ success
  • Willing to provide assistance on other programs
  • Develops and maintains relationships beyond the Institute staff
  • Connects with academia, policy makers, practitioners, and the community

DIVERSITY

  • Appreciates diversity among clients, customers, stakeholders, and colleagues
  • Is inclusive
  • Is willing and able to understand other views

COURAGE

  • Is creative, open-minded, adaptive, innovative, foresighted, and proactive
  • Remains goal-oriented
  • anticipates and recognizes opportunities beyond the status quo
  • Addresses controversial or unpopular issues