Since its inception in 1907, East Carolina University has become a nationally recognized institution that prepares students to be professionals and scholars as well as the leaders of tomorrow.With a student population of nearly 29,000, East Carolina is a large university that is committed to giving every student an education fit for the 21st century, as well as the challenges and opportunities they need to become the leaders in their fields. The sizable student body benefits from small classrooms that, at every level, are led by experienced faculty members.Students take advantage of the Global Classroom, which connects students with their peers around their globe. Some classes are even held in the world of Second Life, where students can conduct research in the virtual version of ECUs library. The brightest students take part in the living-learning communities of the Honors College.From searching for the remains of a colonial North Carolina governor to improving public health in Africa, students participate in research and field opportunities. ECU is home to top-notch researchers in various fields, including a biologist who earned a guest spot on Comedy Centrals The Colbert Report for his discovery of a new species of spider, which he named after the shows host.The university is actively engaged in improving the quality of health care, a mission for which it has achieved national recognition. The Brody School of Medicine is among the top producers of primary-care physicians in the nation. The East Carolina Heart Institute, led by world-renowned surgeon Dr. Randolph W. Chitwood Jr., puts cutting-edge care and research of cardiovascular diseases under one roof and in the hands of top-notch professionals. The School of Dental Medicine will train students in community service-learning centers, where they will continue to learn as they help patients who lack regular access to dental care.ECUs impact extends beyond its research capabilities. More than 187 health and human service agencies benefit each year from nearly 10,000 students giving hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours. Their acts of generosity have included organizing after-school recreation events, writing grants for local non-profit organizations, and collecting thousands of pounds of clothing, food, and other items for Give & Go. The university has also made large strides in helping the members of the US Armed Forces. Dr. Carmen Russoniello has helped soldiers recover from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury through the use of gaming technology and biofeedback techniques. ECU has distributed free football tickets to the men and women of the military. Last year, East Carolina was named as one of Military Times' "Best for Vets Colleges", and was also named a "Military Friendly School" for embracing service members, veterans and their families.Students also develop the qualities necessary to make them tomorrows leaders. The ECU Leadership Challenge instills leadership values in students through challenging activities and dialogue. Sponsored series bring in leading figures in multiple subjects each year to share their experiences and wisdom. East Carolinas Army ROTC has competed in the elite Sandhurst competition at West Point, demonstrating their commitment to excellence.The university also improves the quality of life in North Carolina, both economically and culturally. It generates nearly $3 billion annually for the state economy. The Office of Engagement, Innovation & Economic Development creates partnerships between ECU and the region to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs. East Carolinas cultural impact is seen through its art exhibits and more than 150 musical performances each year. The university is also home to a championship-winning football team. East Carolina University continues to do today what it began more than 100 years ago: train every student to not only participate in the world but to also shape it.

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