The Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) and The Geneva Foundation officially launched the Fort Bragg Research Institute (FBRI) this morning at Fayetteville State University (FSU). The FBRI originated from the recognized need to link the vast research infrastructure of our community with the growing needs of operational readiness at Fort Bragg. Its mission is to optimize military performance through scientific innovation. The Institute will employ a full-time staff engaged in research, design, testing, and evaluation activities to enhance the well-being of the men and women of our armed forces.

The Geneva Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that advances military medicine by delivering a full spectrum of scientific, technical, and program management expertise in the areas of federal grants, industry-sponsored clinical trials, and federal contracts. The FBRI will be a specific entity within The Geneva Foundation. The Institute will additionally seek funding on behalf of Fort Bragg and WAMC from a variety of sources, including public/private businesses, non-profit/for-profit organizations, and institutions/individuals. It will also work directly with the WACM and the Cape Fear Research Consortium (CFRC) to seek collaborative grants and develop a research network to improve health disparities and serve the needs of southeastern North Carolina.

To accomplish its goals, the FBRI will partner with the members of the CFRC, including FSU, Methodist University, Campbell University, Fayetteville Technical Community College, Fayetteville Veterans Administration Medical Center, the North Carolina Military Business Center, the Cape Fear Valley Health System, and the Southern Region Area Health Education Center. Dr. Y. Sammy Choi, Director of the Department of Research at the Womack Army Medical Center, was instrumental in the formation of the FBRI. “In the 30 years that I have lived in Cumberland County, I have not seen this level of collaboration. This partnership of healthcare providers and researchers, educational institutions, the military, and community leaders has made our community a model for not just our State, but the entire country,” said Dr. Choi.

Fort Brag is uniquely qualified to be a Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) platform for clinical and operational medicine research. In addition to soldiers, its personnel includes operational subject-matter experts, molecular biologists, infectious disease specialists, preventive and sports medicine experts, and biostatisticians.

Chancellor James Anderson of FSU spoke about the benefits of a collaboration between the FBRI, Fort Bragg, the WAMC, and the members of the CFRC. “A combined group will always produce a more robust effort. This initiative will enable us to forward new research on medical, behavioral, and mental health that will have a profound impact on the U.S. Army and our local community. It will also provide a platform for our faculty to utilize their current research to aid the military and give our students opportunities for internships, allowing them to work alongside the great minds of Fort Bragg, Womack, and other local institutions.”

FCEDC’s President & CEO, Robert Van Geons, highlighted the economic impact that the FBRI will have on the greater Fayetteville area. “Together, we are accomplishing the incredible. The creation of the FBRI marks a major step forward in harnessing the talent and capabilities of our region. Across our community, we are building a better, healthier, more innovative tomorrow for our soldiers, community, economy, and future generations.”

For more information about the Womack Army Medical Center, click HERE.

For more information about The Geneva Foundation, click HERE.