Universities need to show more commitment to connecting their campus with surrounding communities. Building structures that bring students into professional fields and show interest in local economies can benefit both universities and their students. The panel will discuss if universities have a responsibility to communities, what higher education institutions can do to build community around campus, and what structures can improve student outcomes and economic longevity for areas.

1. SXSW EDU Proposal
2019

2. Higher Ed Institutions as
Community Builders

3. Universities need to show more commitment to connecting
their campus with surrounding communities
Building structures to bring students into professional fields
and show an interest in local economies can benefit both
universities and their students

4. ‘In a world of globalized commerce and
communications, but localized problems, where
can we turn for the relationships and social
structures that our communities need to thrive?’
Andrew Petter
President of Simon Fraser University

5. 1. Do universities have a responsibility and
commitment to their surrounding
communities?

6. 2. What can higher education institutions do
to impact and build a community around
their campus?

7. 3. What structures can be put in place to
improve outcomes for students and ensure
the areas economic longevity?

8. Join our panel!