The Tracking and Evaluation (T&E) Core supports the LA CaTS Center’s (LA CaTS) overarching vision to support and grow clinical and translational research in Louisiana by providing evaluative assessments to LA CaTS leadership that facilitate data-driven decisions for shaping initiatives and directing resources that align with the Center’s mission and theme. Through partnerships with 11 member institutions, LA CaTS has established a statewide infrastructure for developing and supporting clinical and translational (CT) research in Louisiana. LA CaTS initiatives are developed and implemented through the efforts of LA CaTS team members working in 10 Cores located across the state. Since inception, LA CaTS programs have given priority to supporting studies and initiatives that a) focus on disease states prevalent in Louisiana including diabetes, obesity, cancer and cardiovascular disease and b) have potential for addressing health challenges and improving health outcomes in the state’s populations. In 2020, a nationwide focus was placed on gaps in health care and associated co-morbidities, many of which are LA CaTS priority disease states. This has increased the long-term importance of the LA CaTS Center’s objective for supporting CT research that address diseases that have disproportionately negative impacts on particular populations. LA CaTS leadership must also ensure a) the effective use of LA CaTS Center resources; b) an integrated approach to strengthen capacity for cross-Core communication and collaboration; and c) flexibility to quickly revise or develop initiatives based on needs. For this upcoming 5-year cycle the T&E Core Specific Aim is to Strengthen and oversee the execution of an internal tracking and evaluation plan that ensures ongoing monitoring, informative interim assessments, flexibility to pivot priorities, and an annual evaluation at both the Core-level and Center-wide level for new and continuing initiatives. To accomplish this Aim, the T&E Core will use mixed methods, including relational, developmental, and utilization-focused approaches to collect data and develop assessments. Evaluation foci include a) assessing Center strengths, progress toward achieving specific aims and milestones and identifying opportunities for development; b) growth in CT research focused on innovative approaches to chronic disease management; and c) assessing use, quality and costs of programs, resources, and services; budget management, resource allocation, program development or improvement, and challenges. Close attention will be given to tracking a) growth in LA CaTS efforts to address health challenges and improve health outcomes in Louisiana’s populations and b) Core initiatives that reflect the Center’s commitments and collaboration across member institutions and with CTRs and CTSAs. The T&E Core will a) adapt existing tools and processes and/or b) develop/implement new data collection, tracking or visualization tools or processes based on need...