Although Emory University and the adjacent world headquarters of the Center for Disease Control are located within the Druid Hills community, their respective populations and the scope of their influence in central DeKalb County justify a unique profile. The area within three miles of the core campus has been designated the Clifton Community. In an effort to provide a framework for planning this community, the Clifton Community Partnership (CCP) was formed. Its mission, "To bring neighbors, businesses, institutions and civic partners to develop a vision for the future and work together on implementation." The CCP focuses on four areas that will have a significant and positive impact on the community:
- Live Locally- encouraging housing in the Clifton community that will appeal to local employees, let them live near their jobs, and reduce the number of commuter cars on area roads.
- Walk anywhere- walking supports safe and vibrant streets, and can be a healthy viable commute option.
- Commute creatively- reducing the number of local residents and employees who travel on area roads in single occupancy vehicles - commute differently and reduce congestion.
- Enhance vibrant neighborhoods- improving the community by supporting local shops, restaurants, entertainment and activities.
A private research university, Emory's student body exceeds 12,000 graduate and professional students. Of the top 20 national research universities, it is said to be the most ethnically and religiously diverse. U.S. News & World Report ranked the Emory undergraduate program 18th in the country in 2009. The school has nine graduate and professional schools and 13 graduate programs in Arts and Sciences.
Since its inception in the late 1940's, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has continued to expand in size and responsibilities. With a budget of almost $9 million (2008), the staff of the CDC exceeds 15,000 in the Atlanta headquarters and 10 other locations around the country. Over 70% of the employees have either a master's degree, Ph.D or medical degree.