Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School
Advancing Health, Research, and Economic Growth Across Virginia
The Challenge
Old Dominion University (ODU) and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) are leading institutions in higher education, health sciences, and research across the Hampton Roads region. Together, they are pursuing a transformative partnership designed to integrate their academic, research, and clinical strengths—creating a comprehensive university and academic health center that expands access to care, accelerates innovation, and strengthens the regional workforce.
How We Helped
ODU, in collaboration with EVMS, commissioned Tripp Umbach to conduct a comprehensive economic and social impact analysis to help stakeholders understand the benefits of this full-scale integration. The study evaluated the potential statewide and regional effects of combining university resources, medical education, and health system partnerships, including alignment with Sentara Healthcare.
Tripp Umbach projects that by 2030, the combined university and medical school—alongside stronger alignment with Sentara Healthcare—will generate $730 million in total economic impact statewide and $600 million across the Hampton Roads region. The partnership is also expected to support 5,563 jobs in Virginia and 4,636 jobs locally.
Beyond measurable economic gains, the collaboration between ODU and EVMS will enhance access to care in underserved areas, expand biomedical research and innovation, and catalyze the region’s growing health and life sciences economy. By linking education, healthcare, and research under one integrated system, this partnership positions Hampton Roads as a national model for academic and economic collaboration.