Description
Proposals to establish, modify, merge, review, rename, or disestablish Centers and Institutes (C&I) to ensure compliance with Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) policy and University requirements begin with the Office of Research & Partnerships (ORP). ORP serves as the intake point and process owner, working with academic units to determine the appropriate approval pathway and assemble the required documentation. Curricular Affairs (CA) conducts the formal review, ensures alignment with ABOR standards, and submits eligible proposals to ABOR. The Office of Budget & Planning (OBP) implements approved organizational and budget changes following final authorization.
Required Forms and Process
Requests begin with the Office of Research & Partnerships (ORP) intake to confirm the appropriate approval pathway—internal, Executive Chair, or full Arizona Board of Regents Board action—based on the request type. Required materials may include the ABOR request form (Word only), budget template (if applicable), and supporting documentation outlining purpose, governance, and reporting structure. Complete proposals are submitted by ORP to Curricular Affairs for review and, when required, formal submission to ABOR in alignment with Board deadlines. Early coordination is strongly encouraged, as incomplete submissions may delay approval.
Centers and Institutes Info-graphic
Forms
- C&I Proposal Submission to CA (For ORP use only)
Process Procedures
Process Diagram
Important Dates / Deadlines
On-time submission does not guarantee approval at a specific meeting.
Effective Term | ORP → CA Deadline | ABOR Meeting |
Fall | September 2 | October |
| October 21 | November | |
Spring | January 20 | February |
March 17 | April | |
| Summer | May 5 | June |
*Please note that these dates may be changed at the request of ABOR or senior leadership.
IMPORTANT: Early Marketing Approval
Centers and Institutes may not market, promote, or publicly announce their establishment, name, branding, or related information until official approval has been granted.
In limited circumstances, the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) may authorize early marketing before final approval. This authorization permits specified promotional activities only and does not constitute approval to establish the center or institute.
To request early marketing authorization, submit a memorandum address to the Executive Office, Arizona Board of Regents, to Curricular Affairs. Curricular Affairs will review the request and forward it to ABOR. Refer to ABOR Policy 2-223 for additional requirements.