The case studies in this volume demonstrate how community engagement and public scholarship are applied as vibrant and inventive responses to the need for increased relevance in higher education. The chapters reflect the myriad of ways in which anthropologists conceptualize and “do” community engagement in nine large public universities as they connect anthropology to the needs and priorities of off campus constituencies. Each chapter embodies the Carnegie definition of community engagement. “The purpose of community engagement is the partnership of college and university knowledge an resources with those of the public and private sectors to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good.” (Carnegie Classifications website 2013). In addition, the volume includes “Lessons Learned” from the experiences of the nine universities to help those faculty, students, and administrators who wish to imbue increased meaning and excitement in their teaching and research.
