Thursday June 6, 2024

 Track 1: Room 1107-Atrium Title: The 10 Principles of Strategic Planning to Shape Effective Town-Gown Relations: Lessons Learned from the UK and USA

Abstract: This session will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise during strategic planning in higher education and the implications for effective town-gown relations. By sharing theoretical frameworks and real-life case studies, attendees will gain practical insights and strategies for effective strategic planning in their own institutions.

Presenters: Poppy Humphrey, Director of Standards and Accountability, LINK Strategic Partners

Track 1: Room 2212-Banneker Title: More Sports. More Bang. Just Do It.

Abstract: Clemson University Athletics has a very profound economic impact on the City of Clemson. Clemson Athletics brings various student athletes and spectators to the City of Clemson. This presentation will show how any city and a university, no matter the size, can work together to create multiple mutually beneficial economic opportunities for college towns.

Presenters: Robert Halfacre, Mayor, City of Clemson; Julio Hernandez, Assistant to the President for Community Outreach and Engagement, Clemson University

Track 1: Room 1238-Nanticoke Title: Connection through Crisis: An Innovative Approach to Addressing Mental Health Emergencies On Campus and in Our Community

Abstract: This presentation will provide information on the benefits of having the first 24/7 campus-based mobile crisis team available to students and community members. We will examine the formation of the Behavioral Health CrisisSupport Team (BHCST) and critical initial conversations with administrators, students, and community partners. This presentation will also discuss BHCST’s relationship with its community partners and the challenges and lessons learned in responding to on and off-campusbehavioral crises.

Presenters: Kim Sutter, BHCST Lead Clinician, Zach Pocchia, BHCST Clinician, Jon Walter, Student Community Liaison, Johns Hopkins University Behavioral Health Crisis Support Team (BHCST)

Track 2: Room 2208-Jimenez Title: Windows of Understanding: Employing Public Art to Bridge Communities 

Abstract: Windows of Understanding is a social justice initiative that uses art as a scaffold to highlight positive impacts being made across timely issues facing local communities. The project commissions site specific Public Art across multiple municipalities, partnering with local businesses to host the art in main street spaces; Programming to foster dialogue around pressing issues hosted by participating civic  organizations; and School Partnerships with art classes, art clubs, and other curricula including hands-on workshops and youth art exhibitions.

Presenters: Cassandra Oliveras-Moreno, Administrator, Communications & Collaboration at Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University; Tracey O'Reggio Clark, Executive Director, New Brunswick Cultural Center and Division Head, Arts & Community Development, Arts Institute of Middlesex County; Jennifer Sevilla: Board President, New Brunswick Public Schools

Track 2: Room 2108-Pyon Su Title: Revitalizing Main Street: Creating Cultural Space for Town/Gown Connections

Abstract: Successful downtowns invite people to interact and town/gown relationships to thrive. While working, shopping, and dining meet important needs, arts and entertainment are the lifeblood of vibrant communities. Multiple funding programs encourage host communities and anchor institutions to utilize cultural organizations and event spaces to draw people downtown, build ties, feature diverse voices, and catalyze new development. This session introduces lessons learned across the country and a tool to build funding strategies.

Presenter: Christina Kruise, Planning Leader, Senior Associate, DLR Group

Track 2: Room 2203-Carroll TED Style Talk

Sessions: Join this popluar style of presentation that we're offering again this year! Topics include: Advantages of BEEcoming a Bee City/Campus USA Affiliate; A Mayor Reflects - Challenges and Opportunities of a University Community; A Model to Build University/Industry Relationships to Enhance Academic Programming and Workforce/Economic Development. Each have 20 minutes to talk about topics they are passionate about. There will be a lot of content so no time for Q&A.

Presenters: Alan Hew, City Councilmember, City of College Park; Andrew M. Fellows, Faculty Research Specialist, University of Maryland, College of Information Studies; David Buonora, Business Partnerships Program Director and Tom Clifford, Business Partnerships Program Director, Universities at Shady Grove

Track 1: Room 2212-Banneker Title: Community Collaboration: Empowering Solutions for Off-Campus Challenges

Abstract: Does your community face challenges (i.e. trash issues, excessive noise, safety concerns, etc.)? Whether you are a team of one or a team of ten (especially if you’re a team of one), working with community entities is vital to effectively addressing challenges. Engaging with community entities is essential for effective problem-solving and fostering a culture of success. Join us to discover strategies for meaningful engagement and leveraging collective efforts to overcome obstacles and celebrate achievements.

Presenters: Dilna Cama, Director, and Rochelle Toth, Community Outreach and Engagement Manager, Willie J. Young, Sr. Off-Campus and Commuter Student Engagement; Nora Gerber, Executive Director, University District Organization

Track 1: Room 2108-Pyon Su Title: Built to Last: How to Fund, Sustain, and Demonstrate Impact Through Anchor Partnerships

Abstract: Campus and community collaboration is on the rise, which means it is critical for partners to develop a plan to fundand sustain the work. This session will highlight ways that one public-private partnership was able to secure multi-source funding and how the partnership continues to use data to articulate impact to internal audiences, community stakeholders, funders and other anchors. Attendees will understand how the formation and structure of public-private collaboration increases funding and sustainability.

Presenters: Kelsey Otero, Senior Director of Community Engagement and Rana Altenburg, Associate Vice President of Public Affairs, Marquette University; Lindsey St. Arnold Bell, Executive Director, Near West Side Partners

Track 2: Room 2208-Jimenez Title: 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb: A Multi-generational Tribute Event that Centers on History and Wellness

Abstract: Fort Hays State University’s Department of Health & Human Performance organized a 9/11 Memorial StairClimb that succeeds in building community while promoting health and wellness. Campus and community come together at the football stadium and students and citizens of all ages climb the stairs or walk the track alongside first responders. The event relives history and pays tribute to those lives lost while creating opportunities for engagement in a variety of generations and groups.

Presenter: Melissa Dixon, Executive Director, Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau; Anthony Fox, Director of Tiger Fitness Center/Instructor and Drew Gannon, Instructor/Former Director of Tiger Fitness Center, Fort Hays State University

Track 2: Room 1238-Nanticoke Title: Promoting Rural DIG(nity) with Students and Sofas!

Abstract: Join us for this interactive session where participants will understand the partnership between Bucknell University and DIG Furniture Bank, a locally-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. This session will highlight the importance of collaboration in a rural setting around community-identified priorities. A key focus will be on service provision through the lens of humility and dignity, and how critical reducing barriers is in building and maintaining equitable partnerships to best provide services to residents. Participants will leave with ideas on how to collaborate around community identified priorities while honoring the humanity behind the need.

Presenters: Lynn C. Pierson, Director, Office of Civic Engagement and Sarah E. Farbo, Associate Director, Community Based & Engaged Learning, Bucknell University; Emily Gorski, Founder, DIG Furniture Bank

Track 3: Room 1107-Atrium Title: Building the Next Great College Town – How Maryland’s Flagship University Invested Outside Its Gates

Abstract: In 2017, Maryland’s Board of Regents approved the creation of the Terrapin Development Company, LLC, a joint venture real estate and economic development entity established by the University of Maryland, College Park and the University of Maryland College Park Foundation. This private-sector spin-out integrated decision-making and real estate capacity in a single entity, while maximizing returns on the Foundation’s investment. Join us and learn how this model can be replicated in your college town.   

Presenters: Moderator Ken Ulman, President of Terrapin Development Company and Chief Strategy Officer for Economic Development for the UMD College Park Foundation; Edward J. Maginnis, Assistant Vice President, Real Estate, University of Maryland College Park; Greg Reaves, CEO -  Mosaic Development Partners, JV,  LLC; Stacey Price, Co-Founder + Chief Localist - Shop Made Brands; Nicholas Umosella, Vice President -  Bozzuto Development Company

Track 3: Room 2203-Carroll Title: The Dots are People!  Student Mapping Data: A decade of Data-driven Community Relations

Abstract: For nearly a decade, Michigan State University has mapped its student population and created shareable presentations to inform communities and constituents. Utilizing local and permanent student addresses, campus and community have been able to examine housing trends, from density to dispersion, to understand studentbehavioral challenges and opportunities based on residency, and to provide an impetus for policy change in town and gown spaces. Session attendees will leave with a template for using their own residency data to strengthen relationships and cultivate new opportunities.

Presenter: Suchitra A. Webster, Director, Community & Student Relations, Michigan State University

Track 1: Room 2203-Carroll Title: Establishing a Sustainable Approach to Campus and Community Partnership

Abstract: West Chester University administrators and community members will outline the evolution of its Community Campus Committee toward establishing a sustainable approach to campus and community partnership. Presenters will discuss the Committee's history, structure, and initiatives, leveraging Tuckman’s Stages of Group Development framework and engaging attendees in conversation to benefit their communities. Participants will gain insight into best practices for intentional campus community engagement, identifying shared priorities, maintaining accountability, generating mutually beneficial partnerships, and sustaining success.

Presenters: Lexie McCarthy, Director, Off-Campus and Commuter Services, Julie Dietrich, Executive Director for External Relations, West Chester University; Jordan Norley, Former Mayor of West Chester and West Chester Community Campus Committee Member at Large

Track 2: Room 1238-Nanticoke Title:  Partnering to Enhance Workforce Development

Abstract: Learn how a Director of Visitor and Tourism, Superintendent, a State Senator, Director of Chamber of Commerce, and University Administration and Faculty partnered to enhance workforce development in Russellville.

Presenters: Aubrey Holt, Director of Assessment, Division of Student Affairs, Dana Tribble, Assistant Professor for the Department of Student Affairs Administration, Sarah Gordon, Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, Arkansas Tech University

Track 2: Room 2108-Pyon Su Title: From Community Welcome to Engaged Community – Rethinking Welcome Back Events

Abstract: Historically, Off-Campus Life and Neighborhood Services have partnered through a knock-n-talk model for a welcome back event. Since COVID-19, the struggle to engage in this way has been evident. Through this roundtable discussion we are hoping to share our current model and learn from one another how we can best welcome both long-term residents and students alike.

Presenters: Justin Schwendeman-Curtis, Assistant Director, Off-Campus Life Colorado State University; Marcy Yoder, Manager for Neighborhood Services, City of Fort Collins

Track 3: Room 2208-Jimenez Title: Creating Connections and Powerful Partnerships: An Interactive Performance-Lecture to Advance Community Wealth Building

Abstract: For many, our current economic models no longer meet our basic human needs. Over the past several years, Virginia Tech faculty member Ralph Hall and performance artist Steven T. Licardi have been exploring ways to advance new economic thinking – related to Community Wealth Building – through a SciArts collaboration. In this interactive performance-lecture, participants will engage their minds and bodies to imagine, explore, and develop town-gown connections that can advance alternative economic futures.

Presenters: Ralph P. Hall, Professor, Urban Affairs and Planning, Virginia Tech & Joann Boughman Innovation Fellow with the Public Service Hub at USG; Steven T. Licardi, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Social Therapist, Sci-Fi Writer, and Spoken Word Poet

Track 3: Room 1107-Atrium Title: Community Land Trusts and Their Potential for Expanded Affordable Housing Opportunities

Abstract: The cost of housing—rental or homeownership—continues to grow and fall out of reach for many. A recent Harvard report on housing indicated that half of all US renters spent more than 30% of their income on housing and were classified as “cost-burdened,” a record high. Join a lively discussion to explore the possibilities of community land trusts with local and national land trust practitioners, particularly in the case of town-and-gown communities.

Presenters: Daniel Cunningham, Executive Director, Community Preservation Trust, a Program of the College Park City-University Partnership, College Park, MD; Tony Pickett, Chief Executive Officer, Grounded Solutions Network, Washington, DC; Ginger Rumph, Executive Director, Douglass Community Land Trust, Washington, DC; Garrick Good, President / CEO, North East Housing Initiative, Baltimore, MD

Tracks 1, 2 & 3: Room 2212-Banneker TED Style Talk

Sessions: Join this popluar style of presentation that we're offering again this year! Topics include: Town-Gown Relationships as Opportunities for Ethical Enfranchisement: Evidence from Salisbury University’s REACH Initiative; Creating a Town-Gown Health and Wealth Research Agenda; What’s in the Water in Waterloo: Facilitating a Post-Secondary Near-Campus Neighbourhood. Presenters have 20  minutes to talk about topics they are passionate about. There will be a lot of content so no time for Q&A.

Presenters: Michele Schlehofer, Professor of Psychology; Salisbury University; Alexander "AJ" Wray, President, Town Gown Association Ontario (TGAO); Tanja Curic, Senior Policy Planner, City of Waterloo

Track 1: Room 1238-Nanticoke Title: Collaborating for Safety

Abstract: Whether addressing underage drinking, planning for special events, or growing the ability to respond effectively to a large-scale incident, the only pathway to success is through collaboration. Hear about how Clemson University and the City of Clemson are leveraging partnerships to Collaborate for the Safety of their collective community.

Presenters: Sarah Custer, Director, Emergency Management, and Andy Blondeau, City Administrator, City of Clemson, Chief Jorge Campos, Clemson University  

Track 1: Room 2203-Carroll Title: Nurturing Wellness: Empowering Off-Campus Students and The Community 

Abstract: Arizona State University understands that student welfare and the overall achievement of off-campus students are contingent on strong collaborations with municipalities, police departments, neighborhood and apartment communities, and inclusive communities. These collaborations actively nurture an environment that prioritizes safety and wellness. Through our partnerships, we collaborate to provide a safe environment for students who reside off-campus.

Presenters: Stephanie Salazar, Assistant Vice President and Executive Director of Off-Campus Housing and Relations, and Shelby Epley, Assistant Director, UH Off Campus Resources, Arizona State University

Track 2: Room 2208-Jimenez Title: 99 Counties: Iowa State University’s $5 billion economic impact across the state through industry and talent development partnerships

Abstract: Located in the first state to adopt the Morrill Act of 1862 and the first university to launch a statewide Extension Service, Iowa State University (ISU) continues a long tradition of educating and engaging Iowans across all 99 counties. Learn how ISU utilized its participation in the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities’ Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) program to cultivate industry and talent development partnerships resulting in a statewide $5 billion impact.

Presenters: Alvaro Muñiz, Director for International, Community, and Economic Engagement at APLU; Gloria J. Betcher, Ward 3 Representative at Ames City Council; David Spalding, Vice President for Economic Development and Industry Relations, and Alison Doyle, Associate Director, Iowa State University

Track 2: Room 2108-Pyon Su Title: Home Away from Home: International Student and Boston Resident Community Building

Abstract: The Home Away from Home program pairs graduate international students with engaged community members who live or work in Boston neighborhoods. This community-building program facilitates relationships among non-student Boston residents who offer a sense of neighborhood connection and off campus hospitality. Learn how these cross-cultural connections make Boston feel like a “home away from home” for students studying abroad at Northeastern University and contribute to positive neighbor interactions.

Presenters: Mallory Pernaa, Director of Off Campus Housing, Engagement and Support, and John Tobin, Vice President of City and Community Engagement, Northeastern University - Boston, MA

Tracks 2: Room 2212-Banneker TED Style Talks 

Sessions: Join this popluar style of presentation that we're offering again this year! Topics include: Inviting our Shared Histories: The College Park Memory Project; Empowering Youth and Communities Through Culinary Arts: The AmiJaans Kitchen Initiative; Empowering Leaders for a Dynamic County Through Collaboration: The Montgomery County Leadership Academy. Each  have 20 minutes to talk about topics they are passionate about. There will be a lot of content so no time for Q&A.

Presenters: Jaclyn Bruner, Asst. Clinical Professor, Penelope Grenning, FIRE: VSJ, University of Maryland;  Nomie Hamid, Founder and CEO of Virtual X Kitchen and Founder of AmiJaans Kitchen, Maya Hoover, Marketing Manager Virtual X Kitchen, City of College Park; Karen Li Su, Coordinator, Strategic Research & Data Analytics at the Universities at Shady Grove; Samuel Frushour, Strategic Communications Manager; Acting Manager of Professional Learning & Org Development, Montgomery County Government Office of Human Resources

Track 3: Room 1107-Atrium Title: From Social Desert to a Placemaking Community Haven: How Proactive Engagement and Town-Gown Partnerships Are Transforming a Campus

Abstract: Join representatives from Mason Square and Arlington Economic Development (AED) as we share the journey of a campus that is transforming from a social desert of sparse neighborhood activity and little engagement to a vibrant community haven. Discover how a new collaborative programming model to fully activate the Plaza at Mason Square brings a vibrant sense of belonging to the neighborhood and overall campus community.

Presenters: Toni Andrews, Senior Associate Director, Community and Local Government Relations, George Mason University; Melissa Thierry,  Director, Regional Campuses, University Life; Sophie Gorshenin, Assistant Director, University Life Mason Square; Susan Soroko, Director, Creative Economy,  Arlington County Economic Development