About Us

The Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP) is a non-partisan, University-based organization dedicated to enriching the quality of local, state and national public policy. The IMRP tackles critical and often under-addressed urban issues with the intent of ensuring the most positive outcomes for affected individuals and entities. In doing so, the IMRP bridges the divide between academia, policymakers, practitioners, and the community. Working for fair, effective, and just public policy through applied research and community engagement, the IMRP utilizes the resources of students, staff and faculty to develop, shape, and improve public policy on issues of municipal and regional concern. The IMRP accomplishes this through a variety of targeted approaches such as: public education and dialogue; published reports, articles and policy papers; pilot program design, implementation and oversight; and the facilitation of collaborations between the University, government, private organizations, and the general community. The IMRP aspires to be a respected and visible presence throughout the State of Connecticut, known for its ability to promote, develop and implement just, effective public policy. The IMRP adheres to non-partisan, evidence-based practices and conducts and disseminates its scientific research in accordance with strict, ethical standards. The IMRP is responsive to social and community concerns by initiating projects addressing specific needs and interests of the general public and policymakers, as well as sponsoring conferences, forums, and professional trainings. Access to state-of-the-art technology and multi-media enhances the IMRP's ability to advance best practices to improve the quality of public policy in the State of Connecticut and nationwide.

History of IMRP

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.

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