Puerto Rico Research Hub Officially Opens Its Doors

The Puerto Rico Research Hub welcomed the public and the academic community to its new office space Wednesday at an official open house.

Director Fernando Rivera, Ph.D., repeated his pledge to use the research expertise of the hub to improve the lives of the Puerto Rican community.

“We want to be accessible. Our goal is to collaborate and answer questions the community has,” Rivera told a packed room at the Barbara Ying Center.

The Florida Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce was among the first organizations to support the Puerto Rico Research Hub. President Joseph Rivera said data is key to understanding the needs of the Hispanic community, from education to housing. Having the expertise of the Puerto Rico Research Hub makes it possible to dedicate resources where they are needed most. It’s also important for developing impactful policy on the state and federal level, Rivera said.

Dr. Rivera also announced a philanthropic gift from UCF alumnus Dr. Andre Garcia and his wife, Susana, which will provide important funding for the new Center’s operations.  The couple’s gift will be matched by Dr. Garcia’s employer, Collins Aerospace.

“Sound information allows us to develop strategy and promote socioeconomic growth,” Dr. Rivera said.