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—including those in arts, culture, and history; religious organizations; and community support—and 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:
•Clear pathways for external organizations to propose and develop partnerships with the University
•Curated resources for students, faculty, staff, and community partners
•Tools and guidance for faculty engaged in community-based teaching and research
•Information on experiential learning initiatives such as EXL and the recently rebranded Engage
•Timely updates on events, grants, and civic initiatives
•Alignment with strategic University goals through a focus on collaboration
•Metrics 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’s leadership, this advisory group advanced key initiatives aimed at strengthening campus culture:
•“Get to Know Your MTSU” 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 MTSU workforce.
•Open Education Week 2025: Led by its Academic and Student Success Committee, CEAG hosted this weeklong event (March 3–7) 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 MTSU, reinforcing the University’s commitment to accessible education.
•Walk to End Alzheimer’s: In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, MTSU hosted more than 300 community members on campus for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This event raised critical awareness and funding to support Alzheimer’s care, research, and advocacy.
•Pilot of “Shorten the Mile” 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.