Understanding Social Embeddedness

Arizona State University, in order to become more committed to the Arizona community and to society as a whole, is setting a new standard for research universities through the model of the New American University. As a New American University, ASU is measured not by who we exclude, but by who we include; we pursue research that considers the public good; and we assume major responsibility for the economic, social, and cultural vitality of our community.

Social Embeddedness is core to the development of ASU as the New American University. Social embeddedness is a university-wide, interactive, and mutually-supportive partnership with the communities of Arizona.

At ASU, this vision involves the ongoing integration of five innovative and distinct, yet interrelated, actions:

• Community Capacity Building - enabling community-based organizations and institutions to become strong and effective by providing support, training, and access to resources and information.
• Teaching and Learning - involving faculty and students in solving problems facing communities.
• Economic Development - responding to the needs of the university and the needs of communities as ASU pursues its role as an economic engine.
• Social Development - enhancing the well-being of the diverse people and communities of Arizona, by working closely with public and private institutions.
• Research - advancing relevant inquiry by valuing community input, knowledge, and needs.

Truly reciprocal partnerships with the communities of Arizona demand informed expectations of real outcomes and benefits. A shared responsibility for these outcomes and benefits will lead to positive social change in the community and in the research, teaching, and service practices of ASU.

Links
ASU in the Community

A New American University