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 that their students, faculty, and staff 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 full breadth of Notre Dame's relationships to the local, regional, national, and global communities it serves. They wanted to maximize societal impact from the University; leverage nonprofit, corporate, and civic partnerships to increase impact; and decrease redundancies and resource needs.
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).
Architected Notre Dame’s Community Engagement Coordinating Council (CECC), a group that sits across the University system with a mission to enhance the quality of community-based learning, impact, and partnerships.
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.
Connect to community.
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