CASE STUDY | UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
Focusing efforts to better understand and connect with local and global communities.
We worked with the University of Notre Dame to audit, expand, and nurture their connections to the communities they collaborate with to better the experience and quality of life for community members.
In the photo: Students show work to educators at the Kgosi Neighborhood Foundation in Johannesburg, South Africa, a long-time global partner of the University.
SITUATION
The University of Notre Dame’s Office of Public Affairs and Center for Social Concerns were looking to explore the breadth of Notre Dame's relationships to the local, regional, national, and global communities it serves. Goals included, maximizing societal impact; leveraging nonprofit, corporate, and civic partnerships to increase impact; decreasing redundancies and resource needs; and better communications with partner communities.
OUR WORK
Conducted a University-wide audit of community partnerships and efforts.
Carried out extensive research with key stakeholder groups (over 40 interviews and 15 focus groups).
Led onsite research with two of Notre Dame’s key partners (one in South Bend; one in South Africa).
Helped restructure Notre Dame’s Community Engagement Coordinating Council (CECC), a body established to deepen the culture of engagement between Notre Dame and its many community partners.
IMPACT
Coordination across populations, geographies, and needs are coordinated across the University. Over 7,500 participants are collaborating on 300+ projects with community partners through the CECC.
Increased funding and skills training for nonprofit partners.
Helped students learn the critical importance of reciprocity and true partnership when working within communities.
Produced and leveraged positive media coverage for Notre Dame.
Enhanced quality of life within communities that Notre Dame serves.
Make greater impact.
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