URI President David M. Dooley was invited to the White House to attend two programs on innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education on October 1. He is participating in the “American Economic Competitiveness Forum on University Innovation and Entrepreneurship” at the White House, organized by the White House Business Council to give education leaders the opportunity to directly engage with senior White House and Administration officials on the issues important to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in institutions of higher education.

The White House forum is tailored to focus on government and university policy areas critical to America’s long-term economic competitiveness. The invitation noted that “you have been invited as a recognized leader in the field, and we are certain that you can offer a unique perspective on how the Administration can help promote an economy built to last.” A number of other university and entrepreneurial leaders will also be participating.

As part of the trip, he was also asked to attend a series of panel sessions on the “Innovative and Entrepreneurial University,” presented by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Among other speakers, Steve Case, co-chair of the National Advisory Council on Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Acting Secretary of Commerce, Dr. Rebecca Blank, will be presenting at the Department of Commerce event.

In March 2012, President Dooley was appointed by Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Academic Advisory Council. In December 2011, Dooley was elected as AAAS Fellow for distinguished contributions in chemistry and in university research, technology and education administration. Dooley also became the first University President appointed to serve on the Board of Directors for both the State of Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.