A Deal with the Devil: Arizona State University and the Built Environment in the 20th Century

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Date

2024-08-07

Authors

Gorham, Chandler

Journal Title

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Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

This thesis examines the changing role of Arizona State University (ASU) in Phoenix and the United States from 1950 to 1994. The regional alliance of boosters in Phoenix made ASU a key part of the Valley’s economy as the university advanced research and development (R&D) capabilities to attract knowledge industries. Parallel to the distribution of knowledge production to Phoenix was the Cold War which granted American firms and universities R&D funding increases. The growth of Arizona State changed the built environment in Tempe and across the Valley as the university transitioned space to fit their needs. ASU expanded their facilities in Tempe, built a branch campus in Glendale in 1986, and opened a research park in 1984, all highlighting the university’s commitment to knowledge production. The process of development was unevenly distributed in Tempe as original residents were replaced by students and knowledge workers.

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Keywords

Arizona State University, College of Engineering, Knowledge Workers, University Development

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