The 2022-2023 Year in Review for the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) highlights the association’s commitment to advocating on behalf of over 200 leading U.S. public and private research universities, academic medical centers, and research institutes. During the past year, COGR focused intensively on fostering a robust partnership between research institutions and the federal government, aiming to ensure effective, efficient research regulation while minimizing administrative and financial burdens. The association engaged in a range of activities including responding to new research security requirements—particularly those stemming from the National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33) and the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022—proposed changes to Uniform Guidance, and the implementation of NIH Data Management and Sharing policies. COGR undertook comprehensive surveys and disseminated reports to assess and communicate the cost and administrative impact of these mandates on member institutions.
The report also documents significant organizational milestones such as the addition of 11 new member institutions, leadership transitions including the appointment of Matt Owens as President, and the development of new initiatives like the Emerging Research Institutions Pilot Program set for launch in 2024. COGR leveraged its expertise to shape federal policy by submitting over 30 comment letters, collaborating with peer organizations, and providing members with webinars, guides, and benchmarking surveys such as the F&A Cost Rate Survey. The association’s advocacy extended to facilitating direct communication between institutional leaders and federal agencies, aiming for regulatory harmonization and effective compliance solutions. The summary emphasizes COGR’s central role both as a policy advocate and as a resource hub for its diverse membership, reinforcing its mission to promote sound regulation, reduce burden, and strengthen the U.S. research enterprise.
