Join the University of Pittsburgh and Newcastle University for a virtual conference on 19-20 October 2022

A global place-based partnership

In January 2021, in the midst of the global pandemic, Newcastle University and the University of Pittsburgh came together with our partners to deliver a conference looking at the role of universities in sustainable, just and inclusive cities. Both Newcastle and Pittsburgh have a history of heavy industry and share the consequences of that legacy locally and globally. The goal of last year’s conference was to spark conversations that would lead to collaborations to address the pressing questions for our respective cities and others like them.

Our ambition is that our two universities work with our partners around the world to shape a sustainable, just and inclusive future based on three principles:

1. Our shared economic and social legacies, which help define our sense of mission and the nature of our connections with local communities.
2. A conceptual and pragmatic shift from a model of partnership between institutions of higher education to a model of partnership between places.
3. Constant experimentation and innovation; testing new models for place-based global partnerships.

This year’s conference

Between 19 and 20 October 2022 Newcastle University will host the second collaborative conference. Building on last year’s conference we will explore and share best practices on how Universities advance place-based approaches through community and student engagement and importantly how we measure our impact and demonstrate accountability to our communities and stakeholders.

The conference will include a programme of concurrent sessions focussed on the themes of sustainability, health, culture and cities and places. Plenary sessions will draw upon the role universities play in their place, looking at a range of international contexts and approaches to impact and evaluation.

We invite you to join us in exploring innovative approaches to place-based engagement and share your learning and insights.

View the Conference programme 19-20 oct 2022