Contact Us | Directions | Search:
UPCS Design :: University Partnership

Enlightened Self-Interest: Benefits for the University

 
Clark University calls its investment in UPCS and the University Park Partnership “enlightened self interest.” Clark's efforts to support its neighbors clearly raise the fortunes of the students attending UPCS and the neighborhood as whole and at the same time, are in the self-interest of the university because of the tremendous benefits that they bring.
 
Visibility for University: The success of the University Park Campus School has been recognized across the nation and, as a result, has helped Clark to become known as a national leader in university-community partnerships. The press that has come as a result of the school and neighborhood partnership has supported the university’s public relations and alumni-giving efforts.

Safer, More Attractive Neighborhood: The success of UPCS has been a central element of the college’s comprehensive efforts to revitalize and stabilize the neighborhood surrounding the university and build strong ties with neighborhood residents. The result has been a safer and more vibrant environment for Clark students and a more attractive campus for recruits. 

Higher Profile for Education Department: University Park Campus School has helped to raise the status and stature of Clark’s education department and teacher preparation program, helping it to secure outside funding to support a range of professional development programs and improve its reputation and the desirability of its graduates. 

Increased Student Diversity: The partnership with UPCS helps the school diversify its student body, a key goal for the university. Clark is able to finance much of its free-tuition offer to UPCS students who are accepted to Clark by redirecting existing financial aid dollars toward these students, all of whom qualify for financial aid. The cost of diversifying, then, is not prohibitive.

Highlight University Commitment to Active, Community-Based Learning: The three hallmarks or "signatures" Clark education are "Make a Difference," "Learn Through Inquiry" and "Experience Diverse Cultures." The University is able to point to its partnership with UPCS as emblematic of these hallmarks and as evidence of its commitment to a curriculum in which students learn to grapple with and solve the pressing problems that will make them important contributors to social change. UPCS' success paints a compelling picture to prospective students, as well as private donors, who are attracted to the university’s civic-minded mission.