The Center for Regional Studies (CRS) at the United States Naval Academy is an innovative curricular and outreach program that offers enhanced educational opportunities for midshipmen. The CRS is a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates expertise in political economy, security studies, international relations, and cultural dynamics. This Center is dedicated to providing a venue for public discourse and analysis on a wide variety of regional issues.
The CRS provides support for community-based projects that preserve the cultural heritage of North Dakota. In addition to fostering a dialogue about local issues, the Institute also supports research and study on regional issues.
The CRS is a comprehensive research center that is committed to the preservation of the region’s natural resources. It serves as a research and education hub for scholars, students, and the general public. During the summer, the institute offers an eight-week intensive program, the Rhodes Institute for Regional Studies (RIRS), to enable students from all backgrounds to participate in a specialized research project. Students who are enrolled in the program receive a $3,000 stipend. They are provided housing and transportation, as well as F11 credit for their work.
The University of Pennsylvania’s 2021 Global Go to Think Tank Index report ranked the Fairbank Center among the top regional studies centers in the world. This is the fourth year that the center has received this recognition.
The CRS provides a number of research programs, including its Forum of Emerging Frontiers. This group investigates the deep sea and Artic regions, as well as gray zones. Many of these projects serve as the basis for postgraduate opportunities. Other research efforts focus on the U.S. Army’s requirement to study different regions.
The Institute also works to promote introspective dialogue about international affairs. The center hosts seminars, workshops, and conferences. It has collaborated with a wide range of partners. Some of its current projects include transborder planning, improving communication between public and private sector representatives, and encouraging effective use of educational resources.
The center’s research projects also include economic development issues. A number of its projects aim to generate knowledge and action regarding access to opportunities and housing affordability.
While the CRS provides a platform for academic debate and policy analysis, it is primarily focused on the region’s economic, social, and cultural dynamics. The organization also provides an opportunity for businesses to gain a better understanding of the markets in which they operate.
The Center’s faculty and staff include Charles Elliott, assistant director; John Hanchey, GA; Victoria Mocsary, photo specialist; and Melissa Chauvin, student worker. Faculty members are involved in the weekly discussion of various projects. For example, Dr. Carlo DiMaio is seen talking to Max Clardy at the Regional Research Symposium.
The Center’s publications and archives are a rich source of information on the history of the area. The Jahncke Collection of negatives dates back to the 1920s. Also, the center publishes books, monographs, and shorter items. As part of the Brookings Institution, the Institute is devoted to comprehensive examination of ideas and ideas, and provides support to scholars.