<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Home Page – University Neighborhood Partners</title> <atom:link href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/category/home-page/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Mon, 11 Nov 2024 21:59:13 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2</generator> <item> <title>Get to Know UNP’s Current Student Interns!</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/get-to-know-unps-current-student-interns/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0959859]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 11 Nov 2024 21:35:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Partner Spotlights]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=8037</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/BlockU-1-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" />As a department of the University of Utah, University Neighborhood Partners (UNP) have several student interns and graduate assistants who engage with UNP staff and the west side community through university conducted programs. In this post, we’ll be shining a spotlight on the amazing interns currently working with UNP and the many programs that brought […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/BlockU-1-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><span style="font-weight: 400">As a department of the University of Utah, University Neighborhood Partners (UNP) have several student interns and graduate assistants who engage with UNP staff and the west side community through university conducted programs. In this post, we’ll be shining a spotlight on the amazing interns currently working with UNP and the many programs that brought them here.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><b>Justice Advocacy Fellows (JAF)</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">The Justice Advocacy Fellowship is a program in the Tanner Center for Human Rights at the University of Utah. Every year, a small and assorted cohort of students are admitted to the program. Each student admitted has shown their dedication to advocating for social justice within their community. The program partners each student with a local social justice organization where the students intern for the year. Students receive a scholarship, undergraduate credits, a cohort of like-minded students, and social justice experience.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Lessly!</span></p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/LesslyPhoto-scaled-e1731359713504.jpg" width="249" height="308" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Lessly is a Justice Advocacy Fellow at UNP. She grew up in West Valley City and is excited to contribute to her local community. A Scorpio and proud Mexican-Peruvian, she dreams of visiting her parents’ hometowns and reconnecting with family. While she’s not fond of typical Utah activities like hiking, she enjoys ice skating and learning Peruvian folklore dance in her community. Her eclectic musical tastes range from Peruvian and Mexican genres to pop and metal, with a particular appreciation for socially conscious metal lyrics. Despite her shyness, she values connecting with people and family and finds comfort in Mexican food, which feels like home wherever she is.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Currently studying Sociology (the study of human society and behavior) and Ethnic Studies (the interdisciplinary study of race, ethnicity, and power) at the University of Utah, Lessly’s interest was sparked by a sociology class on race in media, which deepened her understanding of ethnicity’s impact on shaping people’s experiences. Her connection to UNP’s mission is personal as she grew up in Salt Lake County’s west side. She is committed to educational justice and dedicated to giving back to her community by leveraging her higher education to create opportunities for others. In the future, she hopes to become a sociology professor and possibly live by the ocean for a while, though she loves Utah’s mountains. Lessly envisions a society where restorative justice replaces punitive systems and she values impactful research. Guided by the philosophy of “you only live once” (“YOLO”), Lessly approaches life with adventure and purpose.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Mary!</span></p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/DSC2747-2-scaled-e1731359640507.jpeg" width="309" height="332" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Mary is a Justice Advocacy Fellow at UNP, bringing a wealth of diverse experiences and a deep commitment to social change. Though born in Utah, her travels have shaped her perspective in profound ways, with standout moments including living in Hawaii for school, exploring the Swiss Alps, and doing meaningful humanitarian work at the Standing Rock Reservation. Mary enjoys outdoor activities like rock climbing, roller skating, hiking, and camping, and values the quiet moments spent reading, sipping coffee, and connecting with family and friends.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Her passion for people and culture led her to major in Anthropology, a field that allows her to connect with others through their traditions and advocate for the issues that matter most to them. Her time with the Lakota tribe deeply influenced her understanding of community and the power of collective action. Mary believes that real change can only happen when communities work together, and she is driven to amplify diverse voices. At UNP, she hopes to be a catalyst for connection and a platform for important conversations. Guided by the words of Henry David Thoreau, “To live deep and suck out all the marrow of life,” Mary approaches life with intention, seeking to make a meaningful impact wherever she can.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><b>U Service Corps</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">The U Service Corps is an internship program through the Hinckley Institute at the University of Utah. Interns are placed with local nonprofits organizations to fulfill service roles. Students receive wages, a scholarship, undergraduate credits, and incredible professional experiences.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Grant!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/Grantphoto-scaled.jpg" width="381" height="266" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">He’s a sophomore at the University of Utah, juggling the exciting decision of whether to study Business, Finance, or Accounting. Inspired by his dad, an accountant, Grant hopes one of these majors will open doors to a bright future. Originally from sunny Southern California, Grant chose to study in Utah to be closer to his extended family. He loves sushi, and enjoys spending time with friends.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Grant is involved with UNP through the U Service Corps. He enjoys connecting with the west side community in the Welcome Center and Youth Center. He believes that community is a great tool for finding belonging and making connections. In high school, he helped with service projects in the Catholic community and helped install furnaces in houses. Grant is passionate about accessible housing and is excited to be tackling this issue with UNP. He lives by the motto, “Be grateful for what you have,” which helps him stay present and content.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet David!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/DavidPhoto.jpg" width="292" height="292" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Originally from Salt Lake City, David reflects on the powerful encouragement he received from a high school teacher who reminded him, “You can do hard things,” a simple phrase that inspired him to pursue higher education. Now a sophomore majoring in business at the University of Utah, David is determined to create positive change.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">David’s connection to UNP began through AmeriCorps at the Hinckley Institute, and he was drawn to UNP’s deep commitment to community service. At UNP, he works in the Welcome Center, assisting community members with housing and heating assistance applications, and also helps lead the Youth Center’s after-school soccer program. David emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the community, believing that involvement helps keep him grounded in what truly matters. Looking ahead, David hopes to be part of something that contributes to the greater good, and he is passionate about expanding access to education, knowing its power to transform the world.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><b>MSW Practicum College of Social Work</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">The College of Social Work and UNP have a strong partnership. Students working on their practicum for their Master of Social Work have the opportunity to intern for UNP. The practicum brings classroom learning into the real world to give students hands-on experience.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Jordan!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/Jordanphoto.jpeg" width="268" height="358" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Originally from Southern California, she moved to Utah two years ago, drawn by the opportunity for incredible outdoor adventures like rock climbing, skiing, and mountain biking. She hopes to go on more canyoneering adventures in Southern Utah and is planning an epic “bikepacking” trip where she’ll bike along the West Coast, from Canada to Mexico!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">She’s currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Utah, aiming to become a school social worker. Her journey began in intercultural studies, where she discovered her passion for supporting immigrants and refugees. After discovering this, she tried to teach high school for a bit but realized she wanted to tackle deeper issues than math, although she thinks education is important. She hopes to help people access basic necessities and improve their well-being.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">At the UNP Welcome Center, Jordan connects people with rental assistance and local nonprofits. She recently revived a partnership with the Bike Collective to bring bike resources to the community! Jordan values community because she believes that to truly understand someone, you need to know their environment. If she could change one thing in the world, it would be making accessible childcare a universal right—especially for single mothers, helping them engage more fully in their communities. Living by the motto, “I’m going to mess around and find out,” Jordan embraces the spirit of exploration and learning. She’s eager to get involved in politics and soak up all the knowledge she can about the world around her.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Becca!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/RebeccaPhoto-scaled.jpeg" width="252" height="336" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">She has spent most of her life in Salt Lake City but had a little adventure in Mississippi for college, where she dove into the fascinating world of psychology. Now, she’s back in Utah, working on her master’s in social work at the University of Utah. Becca is a big fan of hiking, especially in the fall when the mountains are bursting with color. She also loves art, particularly painting.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Her journey into psychology started with a curiosity about people, but when she discovered social work and justice advocacy, she realized she wanted to focus on communities, not just individuals. From the moment she heard about UNP, Becca knew she wanted to be a part of it. The mission to break down barriers to higher education really spoke to her. Right now, she’s actively building connections with community members and is excited to work with the Hartland resident committee. One thing Becca loves about communities is how they create safe and welcoming spaces for everyone to be themselves. If she could change one social issue right now, it would be to revamp the education system to meet everyone’s needs. Becca believes in embracing life’s chaos with style, saying, “If you’re going to be a mess, be a hot mess!”</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Katie!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/katieinternphoto.jpg" width="222" height="333" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Katie is a Social Work intern at UNP, and she’s excited to share her journey and the impact she hopes to make through her work. Originally from Salt Lake City, Katie has always enjoyed reading and drawing, but it was her experience as a para/aide working alongside social workers that sparked her interest in the field. She is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work, eager to deepen her knowledge and skills.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Katie connected with UNP after attending a presentation at the College of Social Work led by Julie, where she was inspired by the organization’s mission and felt a strong pull to get involved. Through her internship, Katie hopes to gain valuable experience working with communities and navigating social justice systems. At UNP, she divides her time between Mountain View Elementary School and the Youth Center, where she focuses on supporting young people in safe, meaningful ways. Katie is passionate about community involvement and sees it as an essential way to provide people with the resources and care they need. Guided by her favorite book’s quote, “I am Kathryn, and I will not be afraid,” Katie approaches her work with courage and a commitment to making a difference.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><b>The New American Academic Network (NAAN) and Communications</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">NAAN collaborates with various people and organizations to establish a network that supports individuals from immigrant and refugee backgrounds, focusing on language skills and credential recognition to enhance access to professional employment and higher education opportunities.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Ellie!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/Elliephoto.jpg" width="231" height="360" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Ellie is a third-year PhD student in Communications, focusing on Chicana feminism and critical rhetoric. She loves community and food, especially butter chicken, and sees meals as a way to connect with others and feel at home. Ellie wishes she had more free time to enjoy journaling, practicing calligraphy, and spending quality moments with her partner and dog. One of her main goals is to write theory pieces that elevate the significance of gossip and highlight women’s voices in academia.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Drawing from her own experiences with gentrification and her identity as a queer Latinx individual, Ellie advocates for inclusive practices in research, emphasizing the importance of humanizing participants and working toward social change. She actively collaborates with organizations like MECHA at the University of Utah, raising awareness on critical social issues such as anti-DEI legislation and the rights of marginalized communities. She would love to see more power returned to local communities. Ellie found UNP because she was searching for an organization focused on community-centered approaches. She is involved in several projects including the New American Academic Network (NAAN), which supports refugees and undocumented individuals. She hopes to create a safe space for others and build a welcoming community. Ellie believes community is crucial for everyone’s safety and well-being, especially for marginalized people, like those in the LGBTQ+ community. Ellie lives by the mantra, “Whatever will happen will happen,” embracing resilience in the face of societal challenges. She also believes that personality should shine through in writing not be hidden behind neutrality. Ellie says, “My oppression is not a buffet,” meaning that you can’t pick and choose which parts of her story to acknowledge—all of it makes her who she is.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><b>Westside Leadership Institute (WLI) and City and Metropolitan Planning</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">WLI is a community-university partnership that supports the creation of startups that support the West Side community. It includes several classes and opportunities that allow community members to bring their visions for change to life.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400">Meet Juliana!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/11/Julianaphoto-scaled-e1731360056838.jpg" width="274" height="348" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Juliana is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but she’s been loving life in Salt Lake City for the past four years. She enjoys the friendly community and the easy access to beautiful mountains. Currently, she’s a student at the University of Utah, working on her master’s degree in city and metropolitan planning. Juliana started her college journey studying environmental science, but a class about race and economics opened her eyes to city planning. She specifically became interested in the distribution of resources within city zones and the connection to climate change. She was drawn to UNP because she could see the physical divide between the east side and west side of SLC and thought it was cool that UNP has physical locations and programs throughout the west side to connect the university and community. As a graduate assistant for the Westside Leadership Institute (WLI), Juliana helps with the fundamentals classes. She loves learning about the community, connecting with students and their projects, and being able to connect people to resources at the university. She thinks the most important part of community is the empowerment it provides by combining each individual voice to create a more powerful force for change. A big goal Juliana has is to be a person who looks at others with compassion and curiosity. She believes listening and being open to others can help solve and prevent conflicts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">A cool organization Juliana worked with called “Green Urban Lunch Box” connects homeowners to volunteer gardeners to make the most of their gardens and share fresh food with the community. Juliana wishes people had more free time in life to do the things they enjoy so the good from that could trickle into the rest of life. If Juliana had more free time, she would design and develop an environmentally sustainable garden in her yard to nourish herself and the environment. A saying Juliana lives by is “You can do it.” This motto helps her tackle life’s challenges one at a time.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400">Thank you interns for all you are doing to contribute to the UNP and the westside community!</span></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Jarred Martinez receives Staff Excellence Award</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/jarred-martinez-receives-staff-excellence-award/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 28 Oct 2024 19:59:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=8015</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-e1725483575232.jpg 550w" sizes="(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" />We are excited to announce that Jarred “JR” Martinez, was one of the eight recipients of the 2024 University of Utah Staff Excellence Awards (USEA)! USEA recognizes superior service and ongoing contributions by the University’s full-time and part-time employees. To be selected as a USEA recipient is a very high honor and is a sign […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/09/thumbnail_JR_Martinez_portrait_1-1-e1725483575232.jpg 550w" sizes="(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /><p>We are excited to announce that Jarred “JR” Martinez, was one of the eight recipients of the 2024 University of Utah Staff Excellence Awards (USEA)! USEA recognizes superior service and ongoing contributions by the University’s full-time and part-time employees. To be selected as a USEA recipient is a very high honor and is a sign that their commitment and contributions are valued by their colleagues, supervisors, and leadership of the university.<br /> We are so fortunate to have JR on our UNP team! Here are some quotes to share a little bit about why he received this recognition: </p> <p>“JR has been a community pillar for as long as I have been involved. He has an unshakable commitment to grassroots work focused on youth empowerment, something I got to experience firsthand as a former member of Mestizo Arts and Activism, a program JR helps coordinate. His commitment to serving is exemplified in his consistent ability to ‘show up’ since this is the way to build trust and relationships with community members and his insistent need to help, no matter how small or large the task may be.” -Jorge Jimenez, Education Pathways Coordinator, UNP</p> <p>“I have had the privilege of working with Jarred since 2011. At that time, I was an assistant principal at Glendale Middle School and Jarred worked for the Office of Engagement at the University. He would come to Glendale Middle School two days a week to work with students in the Latinos in Action class. His commitment to the school and students is commendable. I observed the students thrive in the classroom as he and the teacher would provide culturally responsive spoken word instruction with the students. Jarred’s commitment to educate is clear. He created opportunities for students to begin to see themselves as a college student.”-Jennifer Mayer-Glenn, Director, UNP</p> <p>“Jarred’s dependability, commitment to lead, to educate, to research and serve set him apart from his peers. Mr. Martinez’s commitments to our community are demonstrated through his commitment to make a difference at the University of Utah, support the learner and social identities of all youth in Salt Lake City and surrounding communities. As an individual, Mr. Martinez is humble, engaging, warm and is committed staff person who dedicates himself to lead, educate, research and serve.”-Dr. Leticia Alvarez Gutiérrez, Associate Professor & Director of Graduate Studies, Department of Education, Culture & Society</p> <p>“…this state is home to JR. His relationships that he has cultivated throughout his years of service, reflect a depth that can only come from years of trust and “showing up” for others. Whenever there is an issue that impacts the community, or a coworker that needs assistance, I know that JR will be there. JR is someone who grounds us in our mission at UNP, consistently reminding us that partnership work requires intentionality, pushing us when we waver from embracing community values, and motivating us to reflect upon how we can creatively engage with those around us.”-Dr. Miguel Trujillo, Assistant Professor in the Department of Education, Culture & Society, & Associate Director at UNP.<br /> Please help us congratulate JR on this well-deserved award! </p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Teresa Molina Receives Distinguished Faculty in Service Award</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/teresa-molina-receives-distinguished-faculty-in-service-award/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2024 20:03:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=7965</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/05/Teresa-Molina-award-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />UNP enthusiastically congratulates Associate Director, Dr. Teresa Molina, the 2024 recipient of the University of Utah’s Distinguished Faculty in Service Award! She and other faculty award recipients were formally recognized by President Randall and members of the university leadership team. Megan Medina, the Associate Director for Community Engaged Learning & Scholarships at the U, congratulated […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/05/Teresa-Molina-award-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p>UNP enthusiastically congratulates Associate Director, Dr. Teresa Molina, the 2024 recipient of the University of Utah’s Distinguished Faculty in Service Award! She and other faculty award recipients were formally recognized by President Randall and members of the university leadership team.</p> <p>Megan Medina, the Associate Director for Community Engaged Learning & Scholarships at the U, congratulated Teresa in <a href="https://attheu.utah.edu/announcements/community-engage-learning-faculty-award-winners/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@theU</a>, and visited the UNP office to present an award sculpture in front of our team. Megan wrote:</p> <p style="padding-left: 40px"><em>The Distinguished Faculty Service Award honors faculty members who have demonstrated sustained commitment to the campus-community connection through a life of active, unpaid community service and the integration of service with research and teaching. Dr. Isabel Teresa Molina Avella’s long-term presence in the community has established trusting relationships with diverse partners to find creative solutions to existing challenges. Professor Molina’s scholarship is located within a community-based participatory action framework (CBPR) and is focused on Latine mental health, how mental health is understood across diverse communities of immigrant and refugee backgrounds, and how organizational processes can be changed to improve access for individuals. She is one of the founding faculty members of Bridging Borders (BB), a global collective of educators, students and community partners working to create vital networks that lead to innovative opportunities and pathways in education for communities living at or working with those at the margins. In 2013 Dr. Molina expanded a resident-led partnership and, with the support of the University of Utah, founded Latino Behavioral Health Services (LBHS). From founding partner to board member, researcher and student mentor, Dr. Molina continues her service with LBHS and has been at the forefront of an effort to shift the mental health paradigm from one that diagnoses and treats individual with mental illness, to one that promotes recovery and wellbeing. She is directing her $1000 to the recovery program through University Neighborhood Partners. For her lifelong work as a bridge builder, we honor Professor Molina with the 2024 Distinguished Faculty Service Award.</em></p> <p>Very well deserved! Congratulations Tere, from all of us at UNP!</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Community Scholar in Residence/Community Resident in Action Awards</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/community-scholar-in-residence-community-resident-in-action-awards-2/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0959859]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2024 21:03:40 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=7961</guid> <description><![CDATA[Community Scholar in Residence The UNP Community Scholar in Residence is a $12,240 award given to a full-time, tenure or non-tenure track, faculty member of the University of Utah over TWO academic years ($6,120/year). A request for proposals is issued every two years. This award serves as a catalyst for University of Utah faculty involved […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Community Scholar in Residence </strong></p> <p>The UNP Community Scholar in Residence is a $12,240 award given to a full-time, tenure or non-tenure track, faculty member of the University of Utah over TWO academic years ($6,120/year). A request for proposals is issued every two years. This award serves as a catalyst for University of Utah faculty involved in public scholarship to integrate research, teaching, and engagement through UNP campus-community partnerships. In addition, it enables the University of Utah to better respond to west side, community-identified issues, while increasing the visibility of faculty members engaged in community partnerships, and providing greater voice to historically underrepresented neighborhoods.</p> <p><a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/05/CSIR_Description2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here</a> to read more about this award and to access the 2024 CSIR application.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Community Resident in Action </strong></p> <p>The UNP Community Resident in Action award is grounded in the belief that community residents bring important knowledge and capacities to the campus-community work of UNP that are unique and essential for University-Neighborhood mutually beneficial collaborations. The CRIA carries an award of $6,200 per year for a maximum of two years. The CRIA will be awarded every one or two years based on progress.</p> <p><a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2024/05/UNP-CRIA-2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here</a> to learn more about this award and to access the 2024 CRIA application.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>We are hiring!</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/we-are-hiring/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:16:15 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=7570</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-150x150.png" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-150x150.png 150w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-300x300.png 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-768x768.png 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-e1702944906229.png 380w" sizes="(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" />We are hiring an Environmental Justice Partnership Manager. This is a 2-year grant funded position that may be extended with future funding opportunities. Under the direction of UNP and working closely with the Salt Lake City Sustainability Department, the Environmental Justice Partnership Manager will serve as the main point of contact UNP for Salt Lake […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-150x150.png" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-150x150.png 150w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-300x300.png 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-768x768.png 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/12/hiring-e1702944906229.png 380w" sizes="(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /><p>We are hiring an Environmental Justice Partnership Manager. This is a 2-year grant funded position that may be extended with future funding opportunities.<br /> Under the direction of UNP and working closely with the Salt Lake City Sustainability Department, the Environmental Justice Partnership Manager will serve as the main point of contact UNP for Salt Lake City’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) activities, which are funded through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Environmental Justice Partnership Manager will be the lead staff member responsible for overseeing and facilitating the activities of a new Environmental Justice Resident Committee, focused on the Westside of Salt Lake City and West Valley City.</p> <p>Visit the following link to learn more and to apply.</p> <p><a href="https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/156602">https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/156602</a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>2023 Partners in the Park</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/2023-partners-in-the-park/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jun 2023 22:14:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Resources]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=7100</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/06/IMG_5314-scaled-e1687817569698-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Partners in the Park Season is in Swing! This year’s Partners in the Park events are under way, and we are back in West Valley this summer. We will be joining up with University of Utah Health at the Healthy Start West Valley event in August. These events provide so much fun and connection for […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/06/IMG_5314-scaled-e1687817569698-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><h4>Partners in the Park Season is in Swing!</h4> <p>This year’s Partners in the Park events are under way, and we are back in West Valley this summer. We will be joining up with University of Utah Health at the Healthy Start West Valley event in August. These events provide so much fun and connection for west side residents and they continue to grow each year. This year 71 different organizations have signed up to table at the events, to share information and resources with the families who attend. We hope you’ll come and join us this summer!</p> <p>Tuesday, June 13 | 6 ‐ 8 p.m. Jordan Park 1060 S 900 W<br /> Tuesday, June 27 | 6 ‐ 8 p.m. Poplar Grove Park 750 S Emery St (1150 W)<br /> Tuesday, July 11 | 6 ‐ 8 p.m. Parkway Park 3405 W Parkway Blvd (2700 S)<br /> Tuesday, July 25 | 6 ‐ 8 p.m. Riverside Park 1490 W 600 N<br /> Friday, August 4 | 3 ‐ 7 p.m. Centennial Park 5353 W 3100 S<br /> Tuesday, August 15 | 6 ‐ 8 p.m. Constitution Park, Northwest Recreation Center 1255 W Clark Ave (300 N)</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Nepali New Year Celebration – Cultural Celebration in Utah</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/nepali-new-year-celebration-cultural-celebration-in-utah/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0959859]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 30 May 2023 20:09:28 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Impact Stories]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=7066</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Who are Bhutanese Community? – A Brief Background Bhutan is a small Himalayan Kingdom located at North-East of India and South of China. It is ruled by absolute hereditary king since 1905. The Bhutanese Community refers to the people from Bhutan, also called Lhotsampas or Southern Bhutanese. In 17th century the Dharma Raja of Bhutan […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><strong>Who are Bhutanese Community? – A Brief Background</strong></p> <p>Bhutan is a small Himalayan Kingdom located at North-East of India and South of China. It is ruled by absolute hereditary king since 1905. The Bhutanese Community refers to the people from Bhutan, also called Lhotsampas or Southern Bhutanese. In 17<sup>th</sup> century the Dharma Raja of Bhutan requested the ruler of Nepal to send skilled artisans to Bhutan to build infrastructures, they later resettled in the southern belt of Bhutan and were granted citizenship. These Nepali speaking people contributed a lot to the infrastructure development of Bhutan. In the National Census of 1978, the Royal Government of Bhutan imposed policy that the Lhotsampas were asked to produce the Certificate of Origin (CO) that if the citizens were unable to produce CO of 1950, were categorized as non-nationals and were asked to leave the country. During the reign of fourth king of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in the 1987 national census, the Government implemented “One Nation, One People” ethnic cleansing policy resulted into mass violation of fundamental rights, banned Nepali curriculum, burnt Nepali textbooks, asked to speak only National Language “Dzongkha” that culminated into peaceful demonstration for restoring fundamental rights and then democracy. The outcome was mass eviction for over 115,000 Lhotsampas who were victims of racism and sought asylum in Eastern Nepal as refugees and stayed for twenty-two years with hopes for repatriation with dignity.</p> <p>Having no amicable solutions, the Lhotsampas chose the options for third country resettlement. 2,000 people have resettled to Utah since 2007. A nonprofit charitable entity called Bhutanese Community in Utah was formed in 2009 to serve 80% of dependent families, and over 400 youth through case management, referrals, and workshops. Due to many unmet, underserved, and emerging needs for the Bhutanese community, captured the attention of social service-oriented leaders. A newly emerged nonprofit organization called Community Building Services (CBS) was formed in 2020 to offer high quality program services under the versatile leaderships of Tek Neopany, MSW, MA and Chandra Sapkota, BA who has served the same community since 1990.</p> <p>Within the short range of time, CBS was able to make tremendous progress in operating its high-quality need-based programs and services to earn credibility from various corners. CBS offers programs specialized in life skills, social services, language and cultural development. Although much has been accomplished, lack of sufficient funding threatens emerging needs to not be addressed. Currently, the short-term case management, referrals, parenting and access to technology, programs and services are prevailing. Today, CBS is working with dozens of partners to close those gaps. The ultimate goal is to integrate, tend self-reliance and preserve cultural identity.</p> <p>The Bhutanese community is a cultural-based community which celebrates New Year in mid-April, the Women’s Festival “Teej” in late August/early September, and Dashain and Tihar, other major festivals that the Hindu community celebrate in October and November according to Nepali Calendar.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-7065 aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-300x225.jpg 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/CBS-Dance-Class-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-7061 aligncenter" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-Event-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-Event-300x225.jpg 300w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-Event-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2023/05/Community-Event.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />A dance class program was started in 2016 under the initiative of Tek. The participants perform dances at World Refugee Day Celebration, the Living Tradition Festival and occasionally at the Craft Lake City DIY Festivals. The dance class is operated at Community Opportunity Center (inside Columbus Center).</p> <p><strong>New Year </strong></p> <p>For Nepalese and Bhutanese folks, New Year is the first day of the month Baisakh. On western calendar, it usually falls on April 15 in the year of 2023. The new year is marked by the day in which the sun ends its Pisces indulgence and begins its Aries indulgence. The belief is that when this happens, the older year of sambat ends, and the new year begins. Therefore, it is the day for every person to evaluate the successes and failures of the work done in the past year, and to create goals and plans based on the lessons learned in order to achieve success.</p> <p><strong>Bikram Sambat – Nepali Calendar </strong></p> <p>The Bikram Sambat (BS) Nepali Calendar is 56 years and eight months ahead of the western calendar. While there are 12 months, the number of days per month changes each year with a maximum of 32 days. The calendar does not have a leap year. It is a solar calendar and is based on ancient traditions. King Vikramaditya of Ujjain gave the name and starting date for a new year.</p> <p><strong>New Year Celebration </strong></p> <p>Just as last year, CBS will celebrate New Year to welcome 2080 BS on Saturday, April 15, 2023 from 2:00pm – 4:30pm at 2530 S 400 E Columbus Center, Auditorium. This event is free and open to all. Any individuals, groups or communities are welcome to present a performance. The goal is to learn cultural aspects from each other and enrich diversity. The activities include dance, drama, and singing performances are welcome. We also note and appreciate the volunteers, our partners and anyone who has contributed to our events and overall mission.</p> <p> </p> <p>Website: <a href="http://www.my-cbs.org">www.my-cbs.org</a></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Congratulations Dr. Kuttner!</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/congratulations-dr-kuttner/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2023 20:22:49 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=6939</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2016/08/Paul-Headshot_Small-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="Bald man in front of window smiling" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />UNP’s Associate Director Paul Kuttner, Ed.D has been named 2023 CUMU Collaboratory Research Fellow.  Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. (2023 January 24). Paul Kuttner named CUMU–Collaboratory Research Fellow [Press release]. The Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU) is pleased to announce that Paul Kuttner, Ed.D., has been named the 2023 CUMU-Collaboratory Research Fellow. […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2016/08/Paul-Headshot_Small-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="Bald man in front of window smiling" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><h3>UNP’s Associate Director Paul Kuttner, Ed.D has been named 2023 CUMU Collaboratory Research Fellow. </h3> <p><a href="https://www.cumuonline.org/paul-kuttner-named-cumu-collaboratory-research-fellow/?utm_source=CUMU+Membership&utm_campaign=281a8d36f1-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_10_21_05_24_COPY_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bf28fdfe6b-281a8d36f1-221346240&mc_cid=281a8d36f1&mc_eid=8ee5bb7bf2"><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. (2023 January 24). Paul Kuttner named CUMU–Collaboratory Research Fellow [Press release].</em></span></a></p> <p>The Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU) is pleased to announce that Paul Kuttner, Ed.D., has been named the 2023 CUMU-Collaboratory Research Fellow. During the fellowship, Dr. Kuttner, associate director of University Neighborhood Partners at the University of Utah, will work with his colleague Erin Clouse, director of strategy and alignment for University of Utah Medical Group, to leverage Collaboratory data to conduct a mixed methods study examining outcomes and impacts of community engagement in higher education and how they are conceptualized, measured, and facilitated across institutions. The study will contribute to an understanding of current practices and inform how institutions systematically measure and increase the impact of engagement.Paul Kuttner, associate director, University Neighborhood Partners, University of Utah</p> <p>“It is an honor to be selected as the CUMU-Collaboratory Research Fellow. I am thrilled to have the chance to dig into this unique data set and offer something valuable to the field,” said Kuttner.</p> <p>“One of CUMU’s core strengths is our ability to build connections across a growing membership to support the place-based mission of higher education. This research will highlight how community engagement helps CUMU members achieve their missions while creating transformative outcomes for students and communities,” said Valerie Holton, executive director, CUMU.</p> <p>Collaboratory’s dataset is the largest coordinated national dataset on community engagement and public service activities occurring between higher education and communities. Collaboratory data represents descriptive data for over 5,000 community engagement and public service activities from 45 institutions across the United States.</p> <p>“Collaboratory is thrilled to support Kuttner’s work on impacts and outcomes of community-university partnerships,” said Kristin Medlin, director of research and development, Collaboratory. “We believe it will address a timely and relevant question being asked by much of the field right now and could lay a foundation for future inquiry and practical considerations. It also has the potential to deepen existing lines of inquiry we’re already exploring around partnership strength and reciprocity.”</p> <p>CUMU Strategy Advisor Dr. Barbara Holland notes that CUMU, since its founding in 1989, has worked to provide a platform for member institutions to support one another and strengthen their urban and metropolitan identity.</p> <p>“CUMU has long focused on the collaboration of urban and metropolitan higher education institutions and their cities, working together to identify, implement, and evaluate innovative strategies to address regional opportunities, ambitions, and needs. This research fellowship builds on this rich history and will facilitate shared inquiry among CUMU’s 100+ member institutions,” said Holland.</p> <p><strong>About CUMU</strong><br /> The Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU) is the longest-running and largest organization committed to serving and connecting urban and metropolitan universities. CUMU focuses on strengthening institutions that are developing new responses to the pressing educational, economic, and social issues of the day. CUMU was formed in 1989 by leaders of metropolitan and urban institutions who realized their unique challenges and opportunities as they looked to the future of higher education. Today, CUMU is dedicated to its member institutions and to the creation and dissemination of knowledge on the issues that face our urban and metropolitan campuses and the communities we serve.</p> <p><strong>About Collaboratory</strong><br /> Collaboratory is a one-of-a-kind software that helps higher education understand the landscape of their engagement—the who, what, where, when and why of activities designed with and for their communities. Institutions committed to community engagement are challenged to track essential aspects of activities and partnerships for the purpose of planning, reporting, and accreditation/classifications, as well as to build best practice and impactful outcomes. In Collaboratory, the specific details of campus-community activities are connected to a network of affiliated community partners, units on campus, courses, and institutional programs and initiatives. The resulting data enables administrators and scholars to develop institutional identity around community engagement, increase buy-in and understanding for community engagement and public service from internal and external stakeholders, advocate for its recognition in faculty rewards and institutional plans and policies, and demonstrate the value and impacts of their partnerships.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Professional Aspirations</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/professional-aspirations/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0974620]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:59:04 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Impact Stories]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=6909</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/11/Professional-Aspirations-pic-e1667494674844-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Sixth-graders explore their dream careers at the U with a new community partnership Imagine, and then do—that’s the U’s raison d’être. And nothing embodies that more than inspiring the next generation of scientists, artists, and leaders. This past spring, University of Utah Health and University Neighborhood Partners teamed up with Whittier Elementary in West Valley […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/11/Professional-Aspirations-pic-e1667494674844-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><h5><span style="color: #cc0000;">Sixth-graders explore their dream careers at the U with a new community partnership</span></h5> <p>Imagine, and then do—that’s the U’s raison d’être. And nothing embodies that more than inspiring the next generation of scientists, artists, and leaders. This past spring, <a href="https://healthcare.utah.edu/">University of Utah Health</a> and <a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/">University Neighborhood Partners</a> teamed up with Whittier Elementary in West Valley City to pilot a new tailored career-exploration experience for local sixth-graders. Dubbed “Imagine U Day,” it aimed to illustrate to the nearly 70 students that a secondary education is obtainable when they follow their passions.</p> <p>Students wrote essays on what they would like to be when they grow up. The major employment themes from the essays helped organizers determine the six career experiences scheduled across the U campus.</p> <p>For Whittier Elementary School Principal Jennifer Bodell BS’04, Imagine U Day presented a unique opportunity to encourage her students to think about college. “As a new principal, I’m constantly imagining new and improved ways to spark an interest in my students to further their educations and open unique opportunities,” says Bodell. “When I connected with the team from U of U Health and University Neighborhood Partners, a wide world of connections opened for these students.”</p> <p>Imagine U Day is part of efforts to build lasting partnerships with residents of all ages near the future <a href="https://attheu.utah.edu/facultystaff/west-valley-vision/">U of U campus in West Valley City</a>, which will include a world-class hospital and a variety of education and career pathway opportunities. Much like the city, Whittier Elementary has a minority-majority student population, with close to 40 percent of students identifying as Hispanic or Latino. “The new hospital and clinics can address community priorities in creative and innovative ways,” says RyLee Curtis BA’12 MPP’14, community engagement director for U of U Health. “But only if we truly partner with the community and build on existing assets. Imagine U Day is an example of working with some of the community’s most important residents—our young people.”</p> <p>The university will build on the first Imagine U Day as the relationship between the university and the West Valley City community evolves.</p> <p><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Article originally <a href="https://magazine.utah.edu/issues/fall-2022/professional-aspirations/">featured</a> in the University of Utah Magazine, Fall 2022 edition</em></span></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Read UNP’s Newest Evaluation Report</title> <link>https://www.partners.utah.edu/read-unps-newest-evaluation-report/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[u0987933]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 23 Oct 2022 02:11:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Page]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Impact Stories]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.partners.utah.edu/?p=6854</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/3-creeks-banner-150x150.png" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="bridge over river with trees around it" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />UNP has just released its Network Evaluation Report for 2021-2022. At the end of each spring, UNP works with its partners to conduct an annual evaluation. The goal is to understand the impact that our partners and partnerships are having, and to learn how we can do our work better. It is a chance for […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/3-creeks-banner-150x150.png" class="attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="bridge over river with trees around it" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><div id="pl-6854" class="panel-layout" ><div id="pg-6854-0" class="panel-grid panel-no-style" ><div id="pgc-6854-0-0" class="panel-grid-cell" ><div id="panel-6854-0-0-0" class="so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child" data-index="0" ><div class="so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base" > <div class="siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget"> <p><a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21Web.pdf"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-6851 size-medium alignleft" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21-1-232x300.jpg" alt="Report cover with picture of river and bridge surrounded by trees" width="232" height="300" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21-1-232x300.jpg 232w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21-1.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 232px) 100vw, 232px" /></a>UNP has just released its <a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21Web.pdf">Network Evaluation Report for 2021-2022</a>. At the end of each spring, UNP works with its partners to conduct an annual evaluation. The goal is to understand the impact that our partners and partnerships are having, and to learn how we can do our work better. It is a chance for self-reflection as well as celebration.</p> <p>Our approach to evaluation has evolved over the years, with input from community and university partners. We have developed a multi-method approach that combines partner surveys, network analysis, activity reports, and storytelling.</p> <p>In the infographic below, we share some highlights from our 2021-2022 Network Evaluation. Click on the image for a pdf.</p> <p><a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/UNP-Evaluation-Report-2021-2022_Oct21Web.pdf" class="btn">Download the Full Report</a><br /> <a href="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022_Red.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6875 size-full" src="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web.png" alt="Infographic - Click to download" width="1400" height="4355" srcset="https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web.png 1400w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web-96x300.png 96w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web-329x1024.png 329w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web-768x2389.png 768w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web-494x1536.png 494w, https://www.partners.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2022/10/Impact-Highlights-2022-Web-658x2048.png 658w" sizes="(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px" /></a></p> </div> </div></div></div></div></div>]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>