“At the 2005 NATIONAL OUTREACH SCHOLARSHIP CONFERENCE, Nisa Miranda and I presented a paper entitled,“Rivals as Partners: How Auburn University and the University of Alabama are Working Together to Revitalize Rural Alabama” (Athens, Georgia, October 2, 2005).  There is probably no closer relationship between our two universities than in the area of economic development outreach.  Nisa and I share a commitment to promoting economic prosperity and an improved quality of life for communities throughout Alabama.  We also share a belief that the combined forces of the University of Alabama and Auburn University is a powerful partnership.  We have worked on numerous projects throughout the years, including a HUD Community Outreach Partnerships Center Project in Uniontown, Alabama, and the Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) Program.  We were founding members of the ACE Board of Directors.  I am the current president and Nisa is the immediate past president.  I enjoy working with Nisa and greatly respect her energy and commitment, she is a valued colleague and good friend.  War Eagle!” 

Joe Sumners                                                                                                     Auburn University                                                                                               Economic and Community Development Institute

"the most collaborative folks I work with!"

“the impact of our master planning work in communities across Alabama is greatly amplified by our partnership with UCED”

“UCED's knowledge of the people, needs and potential of Alabama's communities makes an incredible difference in our work to help small town's capture their assets and strategically plan for the future”

“UCED helps communities find partners, resources and expertise in ways that truly "makes things happen" in meaningful ways”

“I can always count on UCED to have a connection to the change-makers across the state”

“UCED's regional and partnership perspective are critical to shaping and leveraging our assets in small towns and communities across Alabama”.

Cheryl Morgan                                                                                                     Auburn University – Urban Studio

“I was referred to Nisa Miranda in 2003, shortly after I returned to Alabama and it’s been fast-paced dialog ever since!  I am continually refreshed by her professionalism and vast knowledge of Alabama resources. It is rare to find someone with both depth and breath of a wide range of subject matter, as well as the ability to be effective with that information.  She is definitely a positive "change-agent" for Alabama”.

Cindy Ragland                                                                                             Talladega National Forest – Oakmulgee District

"Nisa Miranda and UCED have worked tirelessly in the state to help Alabama's smaller communities plan, grow and prosper.  Miranda was a founding member of the Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) program and has served as Treasurer, President and Past President as well as on the Board of Directors.  Her commitment to the success of Alabama and its communities and citizens is evident and she is a joy to work with.

Without the expertise and dedication of professionals such as Miranda and the support of UCED and our other partners, the ACE program would not be possible.  Nisa Miranda and UCED have been, and continue to be, instrumental in the success of the Alabama Communities of Excellence program and in the success of Alabama's small towns." 

Stacey Bryan                                                                                                  Alabama Communities of Excellence