The 2023-2024 "Year in Review" from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) highlights the organization's sustained commitment to advocating for effective, efficient, and harmonized federal research policies and regulations on behalf of its now 220 member institutions. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, COGR recognized both its historical roots as an advisory body within NACUBO and its evolution into a pivotal independent association representing the diverse spectrum of U.S. research universities, including nearly all R-1 institutions and numerous emerging research entities. Over the past year, COGR has strengthened its influence in federal policy discussions, addressing regulatory challenges in areas such as research security, financial compliance, and facilities and administrative (F&A) cost reimbursements. The organization played an active role in responding to the implementation of National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33), the CHIPS and Science Act, and revisions to the Office of Management and Budget’s Uniform Guidance for federal financial assistance, providing timely analysis, advocacy, and resources to help institutions adapt to complex changes and minimize administrative burden.
The report emphasizes COGR’s advocacy outcomes—such as influencing reversals of onerous federal cost allocation policies, continuously monitoring legislation affecting indirect cost reimbursements, and consolidating regulatory requirements that impose significant compliance costs on research institutions. In addition, COGR launched a two-year pilot program to engage emerging research institutions (ERIs) that fall below the regular membership threshold, reflecting its broader commitment to strengthening the entire U.S. research ecosystem. Other notable activities include leadership transitions, expanded member engagement through new resources and professional development events, increased communication via platforms like LinkedIn, and ongoing campus outreach. The organization also facilitated the submission of 30 formal comment letters to federal agencies on regulatory matters, underscoring its role as a collective voice for the research community. Looking forward, COGR remains focused on member support, fostering collaboration, and advocating for balanced policies that promote research excellence while addressing administrative efficiencies and cost containment.
