“Community engagement describes collaboration between institutions of higher education and their larger communities (local, regional/state, national, global) for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity.
The purpose of community engagement is the partnership of college and university knowledge and resources with those of the public and private sectors to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching, and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good.” ~
Community engagement places our community and industry partners at the heart of 鶹’s mission. Community engagement initiatives address the real-world questions and challenges of our partners, translating academic knowledge into practical solutions. This approach is built on fostering sustainable relationships by collaborating with our partners, advancing faculty research, and providing educational opportunities for students.
Sustainable Development Goals in action
Community engagement is a way to address the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at 鶹’s. The 17 SDGs were formalized in 2015 as calls to action for global partnership to improve quality of life around the world, reduce inequities, and promote sustainable educational, economic, and environmental development.
All community engagement initiatives at 鶹’s directly or indirectly further one or more of the SDGs. Through effective collaborations and synergistic partnerships, we develop new knowledge and increase our ability to take action.
Benefits and impacts for all
Community engagement strengthens relationships between 鶹’s and local, regional, national, and global communities. It provides meaningful opportunities for student and faculty learning, collaboration and growth; enhanced research impact in communities; and relevant curriculum for students and embedding responsible professional development into courses.
Partners
- Receive high-quality analysis, recommendations and solutions to a challenge facing your organization.
- Access experts across disciplines and sectors, passionate about being a change leader in modern society.
- Provide a valuable opportunity for students to apply their learning and develop their professional skills.
- No financial commitment!
Faculty
- Broaden the impact of your research by turning research into practice, influencing public policy, and supporting industry and community partners in solving local and global challenges.
- Advance academic discourse across disciplines to amplify your expertise.
- Enhance your course curriculum to be relevant and hands on for students.
- Access partnership research grants.
Students
- Develop your professional skills by working with partners outside of the university.
- Apply your learning to a real-world challenge and get feedback from experts on your approach.
- Discover new perspectives and approaches to challenges by working with peers from across the university in different programs.
- Build your network outside of 鶹’s.
Community news
Nov 03, 2026
鶹’s United Way campaign nears 80 per cent of goal
Donations to the biggest workplace campaign in the region help community members access the programs they need.
Nov 02, 2026
Supporting movement, learning, and research
Three exercise-focused programs at the School of Kinesiology and Health Studies are being strengthened through an equipment donation.
Oct 27, 2026
Bring your research to life at Science Rendezvous Kingston 2027
Booth applications are now open for 鶹’s annual science festival, taking place Saturday, May 8, at Slush Puppie Place.