Sioux Falls, SD—U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) today toured the University Center and the University of South Dakota Graduate Education and Applied Research (GEAR) Center to hear more about the work being done to advance research and education initiatives. The visit follows the recent opening of the GEAR Center, which Johnson secured a total of $376,000 for in Fiscal Years 2008 and 2009.

“South Dakota can be on the forefront of research initiatives and education programs that have a major impact across the entire region. I’m proud to have had the chance to see the research at the GEAR Center firsthand today, and hear more about the University Center’s programs to help us meet the changing needs of our students,” said Johnson.

The Graduate Education and Applied Research Center was created by the University of South Dakota and houses several biomedical engineering programs. Johnson secured a total of $376,000 in Fiscal Years 2008 and 2009 to purchase equipment for the GEAR Center, which opened last year and is fully occupied.

The University Center is a collaborative partnership of South Dakota’s public universities and the Board of Regents to provide students with flexible academic opportunities in Sioux Falls. At the start of the summer session, the University Center offered 67 degrees that range from associates degrees to masters programs.

The University Center’s flexible programs have become increasingly important as the cost of education has increased and more students also work part time while pursuing their degree.

“This visit today gave me the chance to see these programs directly and see the impact they are having in South Dakota. I have always supported proven, cutting-edge programs that advance our communities, and will continue to do so as a member of the Appropriations Committee,” concluded Johnson.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Johnson is uniquely positioned to advance research programs and colleges and universities across South Dakota with programs that help grow the state.

Johnson has held events across South Dakota during the Congressional District Work Period. He has also held events in Sioux Falls, Custer, Madison, Aberdeen and Rapid City.

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For more information on Senator Tim Johnson visit his website at http://johnson.senate.gov.