UM research wing receives national award for website design

The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana won a national award for Excellence in Websites at this year's national conference of the Association of University Business and Economic Research.

The conference was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“Our new site gives attendees of our outlook events across the state a place to learn and interact with seminar presenters throughout the year,” said Patrick Barkey, director of BBER. “We’re thrilled to see the talents of our publications director, Scott Hawk, recognized in this prestigious award.”

AUBER represents the professional association of business and economic research organizations at public and private universities across the county. It consists of more than 60 leading university-based economic research centers.

The UM-based chapter has conducted a number of studies over the years on both local and regional issues, from statewide economic outlook studies to the gender pay gap and the future of the state's coal industry.

The organization was established in 1948 and represents the main research unit of UM’s School of Business Administration. In addition to research, BBER publishes a quarterly business report.

“This award recognizes the most effective ways of communicating research findings to local communities,” said Bruce Kellison, president of the national organization. “(Our) members play a vital role in researching and communicating about local and regional economic conditions around the country.”