The Center for Urban Innovation is the focal point for research on urban affairs in the School of Public Affairs and the Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions, ranked #3 in local government management and #9 in urban policy by US News and World Report. Its mission is to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods, cities and urban regions by: 1) promoting innovation in governance, policy and management; 2) engaging in basic and applied research; and 3) supporting innovative education and training through critical research and community involvement.