What is public engagement?

Memorial University Public Engagement Framework

Memorial University is Newfoundland and Labrador's only university. This reality establishes a unique relationship between the university and place, building Memorial's solid foundation of "connecting its people and resources with the special place that is Newfoundland and Labrador" (Memorial University's Public Engagement Framework Document, 2012, p. 3). The communities that populate the province’s landscape have concrete and specific characteristics and challenges brought about by each region's geography, environmental context, as well as its social and economic realities. Very often, these vary significantly from one region to another and from one community to another. Memorial's mission is significantly advanced when the university remains in close communication with the communities of rural Newfoundland and Labrador while establishing research, learning, and development projects that emerge out of meaningful knowledge exchange and collaboration and that address the regions’ complex realities.   

Memorial University’s Public Engagement Framework defines public engagement as encompassing "collaborations between people and groups within Memorial and people and groups external to the University - i.e., the "public" - that further Memorial's mission" (p. 6). According to this model, public engagement draws on the knowledge offered by all those involved and "involves mutual respect, mutual contribution and mutual benefits for all participants" (p. 6).

Engagement, therefore, is a two-way relationship of mutual benefits and mutual contributions. Central to this dynamic is an attitude of respect and trust where the knowledge and contribution of all parties is welcomed and vital. This relationship allows all of us within Memorial to fulfill our mission as a public university. In this relationship, while we contribute our expertise, knowledge and resources to public opportunities and needs, we are also enriched as we benefit from the practical perspectives, knowledge and experiences that our communities and partners have to offer.

Adapted from the Memorial University Public Engagement Framework