On this month’s Face to Face With Chancellor May, George Baxter, chief innovation and economic development officer, shared insights into Aggie Square, an innovation district on the Sacramento campus. 

Ahead of the official unveiling of Aggie Square Friday (May 2), Baxter emphasized the district’s role in creating local job opportunities, especially for UC Davis graduates. By retaining startups and helping companies spin out from the university, UC Davis hopes to strengthen the region’s position as a destination for science and technology innovation.

“I think one of great things that Aggie Square will bring is that opportunity for people to stay in Sacramento — stay in the area,” Baxter said. “We haven’t built lab facilities like this in Sacramento for probably 40 years.”

Chancellor Gary S. May agreed.

“It’s a great contribution to our public investment that has been made in UC Davis and returning that to the state by having these — our graduates and these startups — stay in the region,” May said.

With the grand opening just days away, Baxter expressed enthusiasm about the district’s future growth and the positive impact it will have on both UC Davis and the greater Sacramento community. 

Watch the full interview above to hear more about Aggie Square, what motivated Baxter to take on such a big project at UC Davis, his favorite music and more.

More episodes of ‘Face to Face’

Chancellor May has interviewed more than 40 guests on his monthly talk show, including faculty, staff and students.

Listen to all of the conversations on the Face to Face webpage.