The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) has an expanded mission and vision. The new CAREI will build capacity for Research, Development and Engagement throughout the university, state and region. The new mission and vision will be led by Theodore Christ as Director along with Delia Kundin and Kim Gibbons as Associate Directors. In addition to the program evaluation services that CAREI is known for, it now also provides consultation services for research and assessment. CAREI encourages interested partners to reach out to build collaborations (e.g., school districts, researchers).

This expansion occurs at the same time that CAREI celebrates its 25-Year Anniversary. Over the years, CAREI has completed nearly 600 studies that have had an enormous impact on teaching and learning, not only in Minnesota but across the U.S. The May 4th celebration included current and former CAREI staff, CEHD and University faculty collaborators, and many community partners, such as leaders from school districts, the Minnesota Department of Education, and neighborhood outreach groups. Former University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks and current President Eric Kaler, plus CEHD Dean Jean Quam, were on hand to speak about CAREI’s strong educational research tradition, as well as its future.