Institutions of Higher Education and Regional Economic Development: Theoretically Conceptualizing Social Justice and Equity Practices

Abstract

Universities and other institutions of higher education (IHEs) have long engaged in regional economic development. Yet little research examines how these efforts can effectively address social justice and equity. This study reviews a diverse range of literature to create a theoretical framework presented here. This framework conceptualizes how direct strategies of economic development – those that emphasize industry relations, commercialization of innovations, and business interests – and indirect strategies – efforts which have indirect economic impact, such as improving access to public health – can be better utilized in ways that amplify an IHE’s economic development impact on local communities and the surrounding region.