Mission and Vision of the Upstate Institute

The mission of the Institute is to create linkages between Colgate University and the regional community to engage students, faculty, staff and residents in research and a reciprocal transfer of knowledge that will enhance the economic, social and cultural capacity of the area and sustain the environment. These projects provide a model of community collaboration and civic engagement for our students and within higher education.  The Institute values scholarly collaboration as a way to support the region.

The Institute recognizes the broad Upstate region that stretches north and west of the Hudson River Valley. Priority for partnerships with non-profit organizations will be in Madison, Chenango and Oneida counties.

Given its broad reach, the Upstate Institute’s vision is as follows:

• The Upstate Institute supports a community of scholars through conferences, publications and grant writing assistance.

• Colgate University students have an opportunity to test their knowledge in real world settings, become engaged in the community and develop an awareness and appreciation for something larger than themselves.

• Colgate University faculty have the means and support to integrate community based research into the classroom.

• The Upstate Institute is a model of community collaboration and civic engagement within higher education and to governments at all levels.

• Regional residents feel at home on Colgate’s campus and make use of the many facilities and programs offered by the University.

• With the support of the Upstate Institute, economic development organizations in the region work on collaborative projects and share best practices in their field.

• School districts have an abundance of well qualified, well educated teachers. Plentiful enrichment programs are offered through local school districts in conjunction with the resources of the Upstate Institute.

• Arts events in the Upstate Region reflect our local heritage, culture and skills.

• Local libraries are hubs of community activity with a well educated staff and volunteers.

• The Upstate Institute provides opportunities for collaboration and group facilitation among grassroots groups, non-profit organizations, citizens and governments. The Institute helps these groups make connections for shared knowledge and joint projects.

• Non-profit organizations are more self-sufficient and successful due to training and support from the Institute.

• Faculty from other colleges and universities recognize the Upstate Institute as a place for resources on regional issues, as well as a successful model that combines service learning and classroom pedagogy.