The mission embraced by urban universities creates an environment for intellectual inquiry and purposeful societal action equal or superior to the notion of "collegiate ideal." They have expanded the concept of place, encompassing society in general and the urban community in particular, by maintaining a commitment to educating urban populations…

The destinies of cities and their universities are seen as inextricably linked. The fate of society depends to a great extent upon the university's ability to fulfill its unique role to give new meaning to the quality of urban life in this country. (MLW)

Edited excerpts from three sessions of a conference on metropolitan universities present perspectives on what cities will look like in the new millennium, and on leadership and service responsibilities of metropolitan universities. Also, excerpts from these and other papers are presented on the following themes: diversity, mission, facing hard…

To fully understand and appreciate urban colleges and universities, it is essential to be aware of and sensitive to the urban environment. The urban university shares both the advantages and the problems of its surrounding city. The cultural institutions and the diverse population of the city are invaluable resources which, inevitably, embody…

All institutions of higher education recognize the importance of good relationships with their communities. To avoid confusion and disappointment about its community relations, the institution must know what it wants to achieve through a clearly defined mission statement or a set of goals and objectives. (Author/MLW)

The importance of partnerships between metropolitan universities, local government agencies, and community organizations to address community health issues is discussed and illustrated in the collaborative activities of North Texas University and its Fort Worth health sciences center, including a community clinic and a master's program in public…

Discusses how students, faculty, and staff face challenging opportunities in supporting the urban agenda of metropolitan universities. Claims that leaders must contemplate these issues and should leverage the qualities of city life to the benefit of the university. Stresses importance of institutional research, instruction, and service activities…

This article argues that metropolitan universities are well suited to respond to workforce development and maintenance needs, and ways in which institutions can gather the information needed to target their response are examined. A Northern Illinois University study is offered as an example of such an effort. The role of metropolitan universities…

Metropolitan research universities are at the vanguard in addressing current challenges to society. They are successful because they can integrate service and outreach into their mission. To enhance their role, universities should encourage and reward those who can make contributions outside the traditional research model.(JB)

Public health methods can assist in reducing the rate of injuries through application of technology, policy, education, and incentives. Metropolitan universities have great opportunities as key institutions to assist in preventing injuries within their communities by using their research capabilities, student and volunteer workforces, and as…

Urban universities' fine and performing arts programs can influence the image and mission of the university as a cultural partner in the community. Examples include production and presentation of events, nondegree educational programs for all ages, and collaborative associations with urban arts agencies. A Towson State University (Maryland)…

Metropolitan universities with community service/outreach programs, especially when affiliated with a health sciences center, can use their capacity to develop intern or practicum programs and interdisciplinary approaches to public health to structure case management/follow-up more effectively than many social and public agencies can. This is…

The University of Illinois at Chicago is using the Great Cities concept to address critical urban issues through new ways of combining teaching, research, and service and by working in partnership with others. Key factors in establishing this institutional mission nd partnership process are leadership, broad-based participation, and realism. (JB)

Impediments to teamwork in higher education may change slowly as some apparent impediments represent institutional strengths for other purposes. Encouraging teamwork must include removing impediments, rewarding teamwork in tenure and promotion decisions, and offering explicit incentives for teamwork. (JB)

This policy statement, issued by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities in pamphlet form, and approved by the membership, addresses the importance of urban colleges and universities for urban populations, and in particular, for minorities. A first section, on educating urban students, stresses that while seeking academic rigor…