CAPR Conclusion

The CAPR has been an excellent investment for the citizens of Tennessee, in terms of research and teaching productivity, in terms of attracting external grant dollars, and in terms of having an impact on the real problems of our community and state. But as we enter our second decade of CAPR funding, we are already considering how we can improve on that first decade's performance. Self-evaluation is a regular part of our work; and every few years we bring in outside experts to give us critical feedback about how we can improve. In 1995 CAPR conducted one such review by bringing in our Board of Visitors for their advice, and as a result CAPR has initiated a major review of CAPR organization. One goal is to streamline our organizational structure to make it smaller, more efficient, and a better training experience for undergraduate and graduate students. Another goal is to ensure that CAPR dollars are being spent where they will produce the most return on the investment—in the specialty areas and faculty that have produced high quality basic or applied research, and on activities that contribute directly and demonstrably to our mission.