While Jim Anderson works as a national
community organizer, the collaborative efforts and organizational
service closest to his heart focus on his hometown of Buffalo.
That’s why he is enthused about the goals of UB
2020.
“In this project, not only did I see what it would offer
at the community level and the university level, but I also see a
change in the dynamics of the city itself,” he says.
“It will help fill up the hole that has been on the East Side
and downtown for far too long.”
Anderson has been involved in the development of the Community
Learning Exchange with the goal of enhancing the quality of life of
Buffalo's residents. He sees such opportunity reflected in
UB’s plans for a new home for its Educational Opportunity
Center in downtown Buffalo and the new UB Institute for Healthcare
Informatics.
“In most urban communities—particularly in
African-American, Latino and Hispanic
communities—there’s not a big presence that inspires
young people to pursue medical careers,” he notes.
“What UB is bringing to the Downtown Campus inspires a
young person’s hope. People need only imagine the opportunity
for businesses that will spur from the education and medical
research pursuits there, a mixture of venues that will have
something for everybody.”
Anderson clearly sees the necessity for a unified show of
support behind the UB 2020 strategic plan.
“This is the time to get on board and the time for the
community to really hold the elected officials accountable.
Mediocrity is not acceptable.”
