College of Arts and Sciences Newsroom

The University of Dayton is partnering with the City of Dayton on key projects through a new Urban Research Initiative created with a gift from UD alumni Tim and Mary Riordan.

The initiative in the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community is dedicated to researching, generating and implementing solutions to issues identified by the city manager. In addition, the Urban Research Initiative provides technical assistance through workshops to nonprofit organizations and neighborhood associations.

“This effort gives the City of Dayton more hands for key work that will help shape a successful and resilient future for our region,” said Nancy McHugh, Fitz Center executive director.

The free training includes financial management and grant writing. Additionally, Urban Research Initiative Director Amy Jomantas also created a website to gather data from the city, county, state and other sources on health, education, housing and other points to assist neighborhoods in measuring progress, assessing local needs and writing grants. Her work is supported by undergraduate and graduate student assistants, as well as a staff and faculty advisory board. 

“The City is always excited to partner with the University of Dayton,” said Dayton City Manager Shelley Dickstein. “The technical assistance provided to the City organization through this collaboration is a value add and will help advance some key initiatives. As we continue this partnership, we look forward to progressing the work that in future will be a benefit to both – the City and the community.”

Donors Tim and Mary Riordan have long been active in Dayton. Tim retired as Dayton city manager, and Mary as a guidance counselor at Chaminade Julienne High School.

For more information, visit the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community website.