Integrating Community Engagement in Public Affairs Education

"While some scholars are discussing the current challenges facing higher education as “the perfect storm,” Professor Bryer advances a novel perspective by issuing a clarion call for renewed community-engagement. In reality, instructors in the field of public administration are facing “the perfect opportunity” to foster democratic ideals in their courses and to become deliberate participants in ending the grip of divisiveness within their communities. Not only is this book captivating and timely, it is essential."

Susan T. Gooden, Dean and Professor, L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA

“What a timely book on such a salient topic. Integrating Community Engagement in Public Affairs Education provides a great opportunity for readers to appreciate the environment of higher education institutions and its impact on public affairs – to look back at the past, to look around at the present, and to look ahead towards the future.

The framing, its emphasis on integrating community engagement, incorporation of case studies, and the related appendices add tremendous value. In essence, this publication is more than just a book or a resource. Integrating Community Engagement in Public Affairs Education serves as guiding light and source of hope for community engaged institutions of higher education, their scholars, students, and administrators.

When considering the problems that are part and parcel of the pernicious polarization of today, professors who shoulder the responsibility of preparing public affairs professionals of tomorrow, need strategies that they can relate to and use. This book illuminates a path forward. During the darkest times, light does shine the brightest!”

Brian N. Williams, Associate Professor of Public Policy, Founder & Director of the Public Engagement in Governance Looking, Listening, and Learning Lab, Frank Batten School of Leadership & Public Policy, The University of Virginia, USA

"Timely is an understatement for this tremendous resource to educators in the field of public affairs. This book provides invaluable insights into addressing the challenges posed by divisive environments through the integration of community engagement. By offering effective strategies that foster inclusivity and civic responsibility, the innovative solutions and practical guidance found in this book equips professors with the tools they need to make a meaningful impact within their communities.

While many espouse the rhetoric of community engagement, Bryer lives it and that is clear when you read each chapter. He brings the best of the broader scholarship into conversation with a field that is rooted in these principles but, throughout its history, lost sight of some of these commitments. Weaving deliberative problem solving and coproduction into discussions about such timely topics as racism shows approaches to how the engaged university can put mottos into practice. Bryer's expertise in community engagement shines through, making this book an essential read for anyone passionate about shaping the future of public affairs education."

Timothy J. Shaffer, Director, SNF Ithaca Initiative & Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Chair of Civil Discourse, Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy & Administration, University of Delaware, USA