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The Mississippi Center for Violence Research (MCVR), located at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, aims efforts to align with the institution's overarching mission and vision by addressing one of the critical public health challenges affecting the state of Mississippi and beyond.  Improving health and well-being through its focus on innovative research into the causes and prevention of violence, a significant determinant of health is a primary focus. The center's interdisciplinary approach will foster collaborative efforts to develop and implement effective solutions, thereby advancing UMMC's vision of being a leader in high-quality clinical care and innovative research. In promoting safety and reducing health disparities associated with violence, the MCVR will be instrumental in supporting UMMC's objective to improve health outcomes and eliminate health care disparities. Furthermore, by training future healthcare providers and researchers in evidence-based violence prevention and intervention strategies, the MCVR will contribute to the exceptional training of health professionals.

Mission: To advance knowledge, develop innovative solutions, and promote effective interventions to prevent violence and support victims through research, education and evidence-based practice.

Vision: The Mississippi Center for Violence Research (MCVR), located at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, aims to be a nationally recognized entity in advancing knowledge, developing innovative solutions, and promoting effective interventions to prevent violence and support victims. Through interdisciplinary research, comprehensive education, and evidence-based practice, the MCVR envisions a society where violence is significantly reduced, and the health and well-being of all individuals are enhanced in Mississippi and beyond.

Objectives:

1. Conduct multidisciplinary research on the causes, consequences, prevention and intervention of violence.
2. Collaborate with community organizations and policymakers throughout the state of Mississippi to implement evidence-based violence prevention and intervention strategies.
3. Provide training and support for graduate students, researchers and practitioners in the field of violence prevention and intervention.
4. Educate students, professionals, and community at large on violence prevention and intervention.

Why is UMMC leading this effort?

While the MCVR may share some thematic interests with other centers and institutes, such as those focused on public health, social justice, or mental health, its primary focus on violence prevention and intervention will distinguish it from other entities. To minimize overlap and ensure complementary efforts, the MCVR will actively engage in regular communication and collaboration with other centers and institutes on campus. This approach will help identify synergies, share resources, and avoid duplication of efforts, thereby enhancing the overall impact of UMMC’s research and outreach initiatives.

Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the MCVR will integrate efforts from researchers, educators, healthcare providers, and community advocates to create a holistic approach to violence prevention and intervention. The center will establish a unified identity through its branding, outreach activities, and shared goals, which will foster a strong sense of community and purpose among all participants. Regular meetings, and collaborative projects will further reinforce this collective identity and ensure coordinated efforts towards common objectives.