Lehigh has joined the Engagement Scholarship Consortium (ESC), an international organization dedicated to promoting community-engaged scholarship, which aligns with institutions that prioritize collaboration between universities and surrounding communities to address real-world issues.
The partnership takes Lehigh a step forward in its mission to inspire future makers who work shoulder-to-shoulder with the Bethlehem community to understand challenges and co-create practical solutions.
Laurie Van Egeren, executive director of the Engagement Scholarship Consortium (ESC), emphasized the valuable opportunities Lehigh University will gain by joining the consortium. She highlighted the benefits of collaboration, innovation and impactful work for Lehigh's students, faculty and leaders.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lehigh University to the Engagement Scholarship Consortium (ESC). Lehigh's unwavering commitment to building strong community partnerships and tackling real-world challenges will greatly enhance our collective mission,” Van Egeren said. “This partnership underscores Lehigh University's dedication to fostering an educational environment where scholars, innovators and entrepreneurs can thrive. It highlights their commitment to both personal and professional development while supporting a transition toward a more respectful, equitable and forward-thinking research campus. Through this collaboration, we are laying the groundwork for meaningful community engagement and the co-creation of solutions that will resonate on both local and global levels.”
Brett Ludwig, vice president for Communications and Public Affairs and co-leader for the Enhance the Shared Bethlehem Experience initiative as part of Lehigh’s strategic plan, expressed his enthusiasm for the potential that Lehigh University's partnership with the ESC holds in fostering meaningful collaborations, discovering sustainable solutions and making a significant impact both locally and globally.
"This partnership with the ESC is an incredible opportunity to strengthen our community relationships and deepen our ties with South Bethlehem and the greater Lehigh Valley,” said Ludwig. “By continuing to collaborate closely with our neighbors, we can enhance the scope and impact of our research and create sustainable solutions that benefit both our local community and the world at large. I am excited about the possibilities this partnership brings for fostering meaningful connections and driving positive impact."
Khanjan Mehta, vice provost for Creative Inquiry, has been actively involved with ESC and has been attending conferences for over a decade.
Mehta said that membership in the ESC provides access to exclusive leadership academies and professional development sessions, along with a vibrant network of engagement scholars and practitioners. This network and the educational opportunities it provides are crucial for advancing the scholarship and impact of Lehigh's faculty and students. "Our partnership with the ESC not only significantly enhances our influence but also nurtures a culture of meaningful engagement and scholarship that strengthens community bonds," Mehta said.
The ESC is dedicated to expanding capacity, recognition and opportunities for those involved in scholarly endeavors that intersect with community needs. This commitment includes creating forums and learning opportunities for outreach, and engagement leaders who are instrumental in advancing engaged scholarship within their institutions and broader communities. It also aims to broaden networking and sharing opportunities, fostering a dynamic environment for collaboration on societal issues through community-engaged scholarship.
Furthermore, Mehta discussed the direct benefits of the ESC membership, emphasizing its role in empowering academic and administrative leaders. "This access enables participation in a broad spectrum of professional development sessions and leadership academies essential for advancing both academic and societal impacts," he said.
The ability to connect and collaborate with global peers broadens perspectives, strengthens Lehigh's educational offerings and reaffirms its commitment to producing knowledgeable and socially responsible graduates. Additionally, Mehta highlighted the promising potential of the new Lehigh Valley Social Impact Fellowship (LVSIF) projects, which are poised for significant growth and impact.
"Engaging with fellow ESC members allows us to generate innovative ideas for enhancing our community collaborations," Mehta added. "These interactions open up new perspectives and lay the groundwork for initiating more interdisciplinary multi-year projects in the Lehigh Valley."
In conclusion, Mehta said the transformative benefits of joining the ESC are tailored specifically to support the growth and development of Lehigh University's faculty, staff and students. It marks a significant step in Lehigh's mission to foster a community of learners equipped to address global challenges effectively.
Kate Jackson, an assistant professor in the College of Health, focuses her research and teaching on the intersection of environment, race and health. Her studies on urban agriculture and environmental justice explore pressing issues such as pollution, food sovereignty and community-led movements.
"Being part of the ESC marks an exciting advancement in our commitment to making a significant, positive impact alongside our community," Jackson stated. "This affiliation not only allows us to share our innovative approaches, but also enables us to benefit from the collective wisdom of a diverse academic community.”
The LVSIF projects, in particular, allow students to apply their learning in ways that benefit the Lehigh Valley, fostering a continuous cycle of learning, innovation and community partnering, Jackson said.
Joining the ESC will also enhance communication across all levels of the university, she said. Additionally, Jackson highlighted the practical benefits, such as increased grant opportunities and support for faculty and students to attend conferences.
"I am particularly excited to travel to this year's conference with a team of student researchers to present our community-based research project 'Trash Mapping for Environmental Justice' and to bring home new resources to our local partners," she said.
Read more stories on the Lehigh News Center.
Story by Haidan Hu.
