UVI acknowledges its responsibilities for service, collaboration and leadership in the local and regional communities in its mission and strategic planning as well as in a wide variety of specific initiatives. Certain organizational units at UVI, particularly Research and Public Service (RPS) focus on community engagement, but service and outreach are also central to some other units and are implemented by the colleges and schools as well as by individual faculty and staff. Workforce development is a factor in academic programs and training. There are also a variety of specific initiatives which include a local or regional community focus. Information about activity falling under this theme occurs across the institution and the University is committed to expanding its role to more significantly impact the lives of the people of the Virgin Islands, the Eastern Caribbean, and the world.