University Development Foundation (UDF) is a non-profit foundation established to leverage the entrance of Warwick University to the Sacramento region. This historic alliance between one of England’s top research universities and the Sacramento region presents opportunities to improve and transform lives through education and targeted investment.
As a collaborator and grant maker, we seek to build on the opportunities of this historic partnership and forge new educational programs to help people of all abilities and circumstances live healthier, more rewarding and self-sufficient lives. UDF is currently developing programs that will improve lives in our community and showcase Warwick University’s potential to transform our region.
UDF is partnering with one of England’s top research universities to develop a world class 600 acre campus in our region. Warwick is widely regarded as a Top Ten British university, and emphasizes programs in science, math, and business development. The university is well respected for its contribution to the UK’s economy, most recently establishing a partnership with Jaguar Land Rover to create one of the largest automotive research centers in Europe.
Founded only 50 years ago, Warwick University is uniquely experienced in building a world class research institution in a short time. While celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, Warwick was named the “University of the Year” by The Times and Sunday Times.
“The university will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year and in its first half century has established a formidable reputation on the national and international stage as a powerhouse of teaching excellence and business-focussed research.” -The Times and Sunday Times (UK)
UDF’s efforts are led by Executive Director, Dr. Lou Vismara. Dr. Vismara is a successful and visionary leader in the non-profit, legislative, and medical fields. He is a founder of the UC Davis MIND Institute, now the world’s leading research and treatment facility for autism spectrum disorders. He also served as a Senior Policy Consultant for the last three leaders of the California State Senate. Prior to his extensive community involvement, he was a highly successful practicing cardiologist. Learn more here.
Watch Dr. Vismara at Roseville 2015
“The resources and land donated by our family and their partners to the University Development Foundation have one purpose; establishing a world class research university in the Greater Sacramento region to improve the lives of our families and communities.” -Kyriakos Tsakopoulos, Co-Chair UDF Board of Directors
Warwick at a glance:
Warwick enrolls over 23,000 students in a full range of undergraduate and post-graduate courses
Ranked 7th in the UK for the quality of its research (2014 Research Excellence Framework)
87% of Warwick research is identified as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (2014 Research Excellence Framework)
The world’s 13th best university as identified by a survey of international employers (QS World University Rankings)
Generates $333 million dollars of economic activity in Coventry, England
Ranked as the world’s third best university young university founded under 50 years old (QS World University Rankings)
Interview with Sir Nigel Thrift
Sir Nigel Thrift is the leader of Warwick University and Co-Chair of the UDF Board. He is a strong advocate for Warwick in California and has generated enthusiasm and excitement for the project from the ground up.
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“The university will bring unique and exciting opportunities for individuals to grow and expand their abilities. I look forward to the day when future graduates begin to use what they learned to accomplish their dreams."
Bonnie Gore, Roseville City Councilmember
"The University of Warwick will provide a significant new higher education option for our region and, importantly, provide great opportunities to assist in our regional economic development efforts. I am very excited that they have chosen to move forward with a campus in our community."
Kirk Uhler, Placer County Supervisor
"This is a momentous achievement for the Sacramento region. Having a university of Warwick\u2019s international renown, especially in the areas of business and research and development, is a huge step forward in meeting the needs of our current and future residents and businesses."
Jack Duran, Placer County Supervisor
"Higher education was very transformative for me. Before I became a business owner, attorney, and county supervisor; I was a truck driver. I had the opportunity to go back and finish my undergraduate education at local schools and then went on to earn my law degree. Higher education gave me opportunities and a pathway to move forward. I support this project because I want to provide those same types of opportunities to the people in this region."
