Engel receives Association of University Research Parks award

Kate Engel, director of communication and culture for Nebraska Innovation Campus, was honored with the Rising Star Award from the Association of University Research Parks on November 6.

The award, among several of the association’s Awards of Excellence, recognizes an individual under the age of 40 that exhibits significant contributions to the development and success of communities of innovation.

 “I am honored and humbled to receive this inaugural award,” Engel said. “Recognition by AURP and my research park peers is an incredible compliment.”

Engel noted that she is grateful to be part of the team at Nebraska Innovation Campus focused on connecting private sector businesses and the University of Nebraska.

“It is a testament to Kate’s hard work and dedication that she received this honor the first year AURP gave out this award,” said Dan Duncan, NIC executive director.

NIC is currently home to over 45 partners, both private and public entities. Construction on 455,000 square feet of office, conference center, lab, pilot plant, and greenhouse space has been completed. Construction on a six-story hotel is planned to begin in 2020.

At full build-out, NIC will be a 2.2-million-square-foot campus with uniquely designed buildings and amenities that inspire creative activity and engagement, transforming ideas into global innovation.

AURP is a non-profit organization focused on creating communities of innovation and education for research parks both operating and planned, plus innovation districts, incubators, accelerators and the businesses that support the research park industry. Engel accepted the award at the association’s annual international conference in Atlanta, Georgia.