Division of Research & Innovation
The Division of Research & Innovation oversees annual research expenditures, working collaboratively to set priorities for institutional growth and investment in research and scholarship. This division includes the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs, Grants Accounting, and the Office of Economic Development & Strategic Engagement.
Office of Research & Sponsored Programs
The Office of Research & Sponsored Programs (ORSP) at Bowie State University provides comprehensive pre- and post-award support for all externally funded projects. ORSP assists faculty and staff in identifying funding opportunities, developing proposal budgets, and reviewing and submitting proposals. The office is responsible for reviewing and authorizing all proposals to external sponsors and managing, negotiating and executing subcontracts related to sponsored projects. Once awards are received, ORSP oversees grants management and compliance. Additionally, ORSP advises the university on new or revised federal and state laws, regulations and policies related to sponsored programs.
Office of Economic Development & Strategic Engagement
The Office of Economic Development & Strategic Engagement (OEDSE) facilitates partnerships with industry and federal, local and state government organizations to advance Bowie State University’s goals as a national leader in education and research. The office emphasizes workforce development, innovation and entrepreneurship with a focus on maintaining a pipeline of opportunities for students and faculty. OEDSE drives growth and innovation by providing faculty, students and staff with grants and contract support to increase the university’s research capabilities.
Bowie State University earned the prestigious ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification.
Division Leadership
The Division of Research & Innovation is led by the Vice President for Research & Innovation, Dr. Yvonne Harris. She is a highly accomplished academic and research leader with a career spanning a range of institutions, from two-year colleges to R1 universities. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Radiation Biology and has held leadership roles at institutions including Truman College, Harper College, Chicago State University, James Madison University, California State University–Sacramento, and Northern Illinois University. Her work has consistently focused on expanding research capacity, supporting faculty and student scholarship, and fostering partnerships with federal, state, and industry entities to promote innovation and economic development through higher education.