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Want to see more photos from the ribbon cutting? Check them all out here!

Background Information

The USC Aiken School of Business Administration (SOBA) is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the hallmark of excellence in business education. Only 5% of the world’s schools of businesses can claim that as a point of pride. Reflecting the university’s culture of commitment to community partnerships, the School of Business Administration takes as its motto “Educating through Engagement.”

Professors in the USC Aiken School of Business Administration for years have contractually provided economic analysis to businesses and organizations throughout South Carolina. Sample projects have ranged from production of numerous Regional Economic Benchmarking Reports for Aiken County conducted for the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of Aiken, Edgefield, and Saluda Counties to an economic impact study of the Savannah River Site on five adjacent counties in South Carolina and Georgia.

Other sample projects include assessment of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Flow Down to Local Community conducted for Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, the economic impact of Aiken Preparatory School on the local economy, and a research study conducted for the South Carolina chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons. No project has been too large or too small for SOBA. This work underscores the value that local and regional business leaders place on evaluations conducted by SOBA.

The purpose of establishing the Pacer Center for Excellence in Business Research and Entrepreneurship (Pacer Center) is to use the School of Business Administration’s expertise in the field of economics, finance, accounting, marketing, management, and data analytics to enhance local, regional, and national economy while engaging students in business research and experience.

Mission of Pacer Center

The mission of the USC Aiken Pacer Center is to provide data-driven, unbiased, rigorous research that will enhance society. The Pacer Center will provide a unique opportunity for USC Aiken students to engage in entrepreneurship, cutting-edge research, and service.

Vision of Pacer Center

USC Aiken Pacer Center aspires to be the recognized authority and leader in economic development, business research, and entrepreneurship in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

Faculty

Dr. Sanela Porca will be appointed Executive Director of the Pacer Center for Excellence in Business Research and Entrepreneurship. The Pacer Center will rely on the business faculty, fellows, and student interns to work to enhance the local and state economy. Please contact Dr. Sanela Porca for more information on how the USC Aiken Pacer Center can be of service to you and your business.