The Coalition of Urban Serving Universities (USU) stands as a vital network of public urban research universities, spearheading transformative change within institutions and the communities they serve. Driven by the vision of university presidents, USU leverages the collective intellectual and economic power of its members to address critical urban challenges and bolster America’s competitive edge in the global landscape.
USU’s core mission revolves around the concept of universities as “anchor institutions,” playing a pivotal role in workforce and career development, fostering equitable student success, cultivating impactful campus-community partnerships, and promoting overall economic and community well-being. This is achieved through collaborative membership activities and strategically funded initiatives. In a powerful alliance, USU partners with the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU), amplifying its reach and impact on the national urban agenda for public universities.
As a 501 (c) 6 membership organization, USU has solidified a lasting partnership with APLU through a joint USU/APLU Office of Urban Initiatives, ensuring sustained focus and collaborative action.
The Value Proposition for Members
Joining USU unlocks a wealth of opportunities for member institutions to engage, collaborate, and connect with peers across urban-serving campuses nationwide.
Networking and Collaboration
- Presidential and Chancellors’ Meetings: Monthly forums for USU presidents and chancellors to convene and address pressing issues.
- USU Summer Meeting: An annual gathering dedicated to in-depth discussions and strategic planning.
- APLU Annual Meeting Integration: Dedicated USU content and sessions within the broader APLU Annual Meeting.
- Member Newsletter: A monthly digest keeping members informed of news, opportunities, and best practices.
- Webinar Series: Regular online sessions focusing on relevant topics and expert insights.
Resources and Technical Support
- Specialized Training Institutes: Access to programs like the Urban Adult Learner Institute (UALI) and The Student Experience Project Institute, providing targeted professional development.
- Publications and Toolkits: Resources derived from USU’s grant-funded initiatives, offering practical guidance and frameworks.
- National Initiative Participation: Opportunities to engage in national-level projects and collaborations facilitated through USU’s intermediary role.
Thought Leadership and Advocacy
- Sector Advocacy: Championing the urban-serving sector through research, policy engagement, and promotion of best practices.
- Member Success Promotion: Highlighting and disseminating the achievements and news of member institutions.
- Amplified Impact via APLU Partnership: Leveraging the APLU partnership to broaden reach and influence.
Connect with USU
Stay connected and learn more about USU’s initiatives:
Contact: [email protected]
Social Media: Twitter/X (@USUCoalition) & LinkedIn (The Coalition of Urban Serving Universities)
Meet the USU Team
Jennifer Keup, Ph.D.
Jennifer Keup, Ph.D., Vice President for Urban Initiatives and Executive Director of the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, leading efforts to strengthen urban universities’ impact. Biography
Samantha Levine
Samantha Levine, Director of the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, managing daily operations and strategic initiatives for the organization. Biography
Jimmy McClellan
Jimmy McClellan, Associate Director at the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, supporting program development and member engagement activities. Biography
Julia Boyer, Senior Associate with the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, contributing to research, communications, and project implementation. Biography
