Vision and Mission
In deep collaboration with committed partners, the Riverside Education Innovation District (REID) initiative is on a mission to strengthen educational opportunities and neighborhood vitality in Indianapolis’ Near Northwest Area and beyond through programs and placemaking.
Timeline Overview
2023 Worked with neighbors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss educational gaps in the area and the types of resources they would like to see in the neighborhood. Key takeaways:
- Resources for adults and other non-traditional students
- Programs for business owners and justice-involved neighbors
- Address the need for retail, workforce housing, and early learning in the community
2024 Marian University applied for and received a Lilly Endowment Inc. College and Community Collaboration grant to improve literacy rates and lifetime educational attainment in the Near Northwest Area of Indianapolis.
- Began work with K-12 schools in the area, walking alongside educators to provide Science of Reading-backed professional development and student support
- Ownership of the long-vacant Larue Carter property was transferred to Marian for redevelopment as a hub for cradle-to-career educational programs and community amenities
2025 and beyond Partner collaborations continue throughout K-12 schools and the broader community. Renovations to the oldest building on the property have begun. The property has been renamed The Grove at Cold Spring.
- Collaborative office space slated to open in the summer of 2027
- Career Technical Education Center from Vincennes University will open in the fall of 2027
- Early learning center planned for 2028
- Work towards additional community amenities continues
Why This Matters to Marian’s Mission
The REID initiative is a mission-driven effort that aligns with Marian University’s commitment to excellence in learning and is grounded in the vision of an unflagging commitment to advance the dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.
Improved literacy rates and pathways to lifelong learning lead to higher high school graduation rates, weekly wages, and lifetime earnings. Investing in placemaking to repurpose vacant buildings into vibrant community spaces enhances the quality of life in the community that Marian University has called home since 1937.
United for a shared purpose, together we can improve the quality of life in our community.