Despite a pandemic that greatly impacts faculty and students’ ability to interact with community partners due to health concerns, the University of Louisville is committed to staying connected locally and globally to help address educational, health, and social issues. While in some cases we have had to modify the way the work is done, the commitment remains. Where its not possible to continue partnership activities in person, faculty and students are connecting virtually with community partners. To preserve the health of everyone, the Office of Community Engagement developed a list of ideas and suggestions to provide guidance to engage with the community during the pandemic.

On September 2^nd, Yum! Brands, Inc. KFC U.S. announced plans to invest $6 million over five years to advance equity and opportunity across Louisville, particularly in west Louisville. This commitment will support a range of community programs in Louisville, including UofL Business professor Dr. Nat Irvin’s work with our Signature Partnership school Central High Magnet Career Academy, as well as other key JCPS schools. Dr. Irvin will launch the second phase of a business, technology and leadership development pilot program to help predominantly Pell Grant-eligible high school students earn college credits from and early admission to the University of Louisville.

The pandemic could not stop the Leaders in Residence Fellowship from a successful inaugural year.

The Campaign for Black Male Achievement, in partnership with UofL and Metro United Way, completed delivery of a professional development program for leaders in the Black Male Achievement (BMA) field to help cultivate long-term capacity in local organizations, build skills in organizational and nonprofit growth, and to network with established and emerging BMA leaders. Check out videos of the Capstone presentations from the first cohort of Leaders in Residence Fellows at the UofL Office of Community Engagement's YouTube Channel.