Urban universities partner with urban communities

In the United States, eight out of 10 people live in metropolitan areas, where jobs, housing, the environment and the economy are among the daily challenges for city leaders. Universities located in cities are in a unique position to partner with their communities in facing the issues that affect both, to the benefit of both.

The Urban Studies program at the University of Washington Tacoma is holding an open forum, "The Urban University," Feb. 3, to examine how universities interact with their host cities and the implications of those relationships for Tacoma, its residents and businesses, and for UW Tacoma.

"The forum encourages broad civic dialogue about Tacoma's future and how campus, community and commercial interests can work together to enable social and economic change," said Linda Ishem, assistant professor of urban studies and the forum's coordinator. "We are not just seeking to affirm existing relationships but to ask tough questions about the expectations, commitments, roles and responsibilities of urban universities."  

Wim Wiewel (pronounced "Vim Vievel,"), president of Portland State University, will deliver the keynote address. A prominent urban scholar, Wiewel has led his urban university since August 2008. He previously held administrative positions at the University of Baltimore and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where he served, among other duties, as dean of the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs, and as associate editor of Economic Development Quarterly. Wiewel also directed UIC's Center for Urban Economic Development. At the forum, Wiewel will examine the historical context of urban universities, their missions, contemporary issues and best-practice models for effective collaboration.

The all-day forum begins in Carwein Auditorium on the UW Tacoma campus with a breakfast roundtable on "Economic and Social Impacts of Urban Universities." Speakers include moderator Jeff Rounce, publisher of the Business Examiner; Tacoma Mayor Marilyn Strickland; Bruce Mann, economics professor at the University of Puget Sound; Rick Allen, president of United Way of Pierce County, and Wiewel.

The rest of the forum takes place in William Philip Hall. Two panels of academics, community leaders and residents will discuss important themes.

"The University as Developer" panel, moderated by Yonn Dierwechter, associate professor in the Urban Studies program at UW Tacoma, also includes John Finke, regional director for the National Development Council; Tom Fitzsimmons, COO for Lorig Associates; and Cheryl Jones, executive director for Allen Renaissance.

"The University as Community Partner" panel, moderated by Kathleen Merryman, columnist for The News Tribune, includes Pamela Transue, president of Tacoma Community College; Linda Ishem, assistant professor in the Urban Studies program at UW Tacoma; and Joe Lawless, director of the Center for Leadership and Social Responsibility at UW Tacoma's Milgard School of Business.

The Urban University is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required. Registered participants will receive a complimentary breakfast and box lunch.

Sponsors of The Urban University include John Korsmo Construction, the City of Tacoma, Olson Kundig Architects, BCRA and the Port of Tacoma.