Community Engagement
A Framework for Community Engagement
From improving medical care and public health, to supporting local schools and contributing to the regional economy, Brown’s community engagement and commitment to the success of the local community is reflected in many ways. Our research, expertise, teaching and learning, anchor resources and investments, and inclusive pathways are the core domains that make up a five-part framework for Brown’s community engagement. Acting together, these domains can amplify mutual benefit by reliably connecting people, ideas and efforts — across campus, institutions and sectors.
The Providence and Rhode Island communities and the University are interdependent. Brown disseminates, offers and/or provides resources that can bring benefit to Providence and Rhode Island in each of the five domains. At the same time, community organizations, leaders and residents inform, offer and/or provide resources that can bring benefit to Brown University in each domain.
We consult Rhode Islanders as engaged practitioners and participants in research on the causes of and solutions to pressing societal concerns, generating and sharing useful knowledge that is responsive and beneficial to community stakeholders.
Examples:
- Community-Engaged Research
- Faculty & Student Research Aligned with Local Priorities
- Translated & Applied Findings
We invest in holistic engaged co/curricular student learning that develops foundational skills and habits to become informed, ethical and engaged community members.
Examples:
- Community-Engaged Courses
- Community Practitioners as Co-Educators
- Engaged Student Organizations
- Fellowships & Residencies
- Off-Campus Work-Study
- Practica & Internships
Through our network of faculty and staff, we connect with community organizations, institutions, groups and residents to collaborate on areas of shared interest and public concern.
Examples:
- Consultation & Training
- Membership on Boards & Commissions
- Public Speaking & Writing
We invest in college access, workforce development and local businesses to advance equitable educational outcomes and economic mobility for Rhode Islanders.
Examples:
- College Access & K-12 Partnerships
- Hiring & Workforce Development
- Supplier/Business Development
We contribute to local economic vitality, civic health and environmental sustainability through areas such as employment, procurement, facilities, arts and athletics.
Examples:
- Arts, Culture, Athletics
- Employment
- Library & Technology Access
- Purchasing/Procurement
- Space & Land Use
- Sponsorships & Funding
- Transit & Infrastructure Investments