The Engaged Scholars Academy at The Ohio State University is concluding its inaugural year, with 16 faculty members from various disciplines nearing the end of the program, according to a Mar. 27 announcement. Participants from fields such as optometry, dance, social work, and city planning have met regularly throughout the academic year to attend speaker sessions and collaborate with colleagues.
The academy aims to promote research and teaching that address societal challenges through community partnerships while offering professional development for participants. This aligns with The Ohio State University’s broader efforts in community engagement, including initiatives that raise funds for pediatric cancer research and organize global service trips for students, according to the official website: official website.
Jason Reece, vice provost for engaged scholarship and community engagement, said: “It’s inspiring to see the different disciplines that our engaged scholars are active in. It’s compelling to see the different ways in which our faculty work with the community.”
Matt Wu, assistant professor of chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences and a participant in this year’s academy class, described his experience as transformative. “This was an unforgettable experience,” Wu said. “Not only have I really gravitated toward this newfound community, but I’ve found a place where, once a month, I get to be inspired.” Wu explained how he hopes chemistry students can contribute directly to local organizations like Mid-Ohio Food Collective by applying their coursework experiments toward real-world issues such as improving crop yields.
Wu also reflected on building connections within Columbus: “As a faculty member early in my career,” he said, “I’m just here in my office trying to get my work done. I don’t always take note of what’s happening outside the university. The Engaged Scholars Academy has provided a window to better understand Columbus.”
Reece emphasized another benefit: “Being able to communicate about your work is so important for professional development,” he said. “When scholars are trying to find funding for their work, we want them to share that it is distinct and different.”
The university supports academics through facilities such as the Wexner Center for the Arts and Recreation and Physical Activity Center according to its official website. It operates six campuses across Ohio along with 88 Extension offices serving every county according to its official website. These resources help fulfill its land-grant mission through affordable education, innovative research projects like those supported by Engaged Scholars Academy programs—and ongoing outreach statewide according to its official website.
Wu encourages other academics new to Columbus or interested in greater engagement opportunities: “When you become engaged with the community, you realize that there are doors where you’re invited in… part of this larger community that is Columbus.” He suggested renaming it “the Inspired Scholars Academy” due to his positive experience.