Monica Smith is assistant to the president for community engagement, responsible for developing and supporting relationships with a broad range of community and civic organizations鈥攊ncluding those in arts, culture, and history; religious organizations; and community support鈥攁nd cultivating a campus environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. This, to me, is a very critical position as we continue to move forward in bringing the community closer to the University and fostering deeper engagement both inside and outside our campus.
Here are some updates from this area:
Launch of Community Engagement Webpage: Community Engagement unveiled its inaugural webpage, serving as a centralized hub for connecting campus and community engagement opportunities. This platform () offers:
鈥lear pathways for external organizations to propose and develop partnerships with the University
鈥urated resources for students, faculty, staff, and community partners
鈥ools and guidance for faculty engaged in community-based teaching and research
鈥nformation on experiential learning initiatives such as EXL and the recently rebranded Engage
鈥imely updates on events, grants, and civic initiatives
鈥lignment with strategic University goals through a focus on collaboration
鈥etrics for tracking engagement and impact
True Blue Community Training: In collaboration with the College of Liberal Arts and the College of Media and Entertainment, Community Engagement facilitated tailored training sessions delivered by faculty to meet the specific needs of local congregations and faith- based leaders.
Community Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG): Under Smith鈥檚 leadership, this advisory group advanced key initiatives aimed at strengthening campus culture:
鈥⑩�淕et to Know Your 91大神鈥� Series: Launched by the Campus Workforce Committee, this monthly series offers themed events designed to promote employee engagement, foster belonging, and deepen professional and personal connections within the 91大神 workforce.
鈥pen Education Week 2025: Led by its Academic and Student Success Committee, CEAG hosted this weeklong event (March 3鈥�7) to spotlight the role of affordable learning in student success. Sessions emphasized the impact of open educational resources (OER) and zero textbook cost (ZTC) courses at 91大神, reinforcing the University鈥檚 commitment to accessible education.
鈥alk to End Alzheimer鈥檚: In partnership with the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association, 91大神 hosted more than 300 community members on campus for the Walk to End Alzheimer鈥檚. This event raised critical awareness and funding to support Alzheimer鈥檚 care, research, and advocacy.
鈥ilot of 鈥淪horten the Mile鈥� Shuttle Service: In partnership with Main Street Murfreesboro, the department launched a Saturday shuttle service connecting campus to the Murfreesboro square. The initiative encourages student participation in the Saturday Market and fosters a stronger sense of belonging within the broader community.