Colleges and universities in urban centers have often leveraged their locales to appeal to students while also taking a more active role in addressing local challenges. They embrace civic engagement, support service-learning, tailor courses to local needs, and even provide university-community collaborations such as lab schools and innovation hubs. Engaging Place, Engaging Practices highlights the significant role the academy, in general, and urban history, in particular, can play in fostering these critical connections.

The editors and contributors to this volume address topics ranging from historical injustices and affordable housing and land use to climate change planning and the emergence of digital humanities. These case studies reveal the intricate components of a city’s history and how they provide context and promote a sense of cultural belonging.

This timely book appreciates and emphasizes the critical role universities must play as intentional—and humble—partners in addressing the past, present, and future challenges facing cities through democratic community engagement.

Robin F. Bachin is the Assistant Provost for Civic and Community Engagement and Charlton W. Tebeau Associate Professor of History at the University of Miami. She is the author of Building the South Side: Urban Space and Civic Culture in Chicago, 1890-1919 and editor of “Big Bosses”: A Working Girl’s Memoir of Jazz Age America.
Amy L. Howard is the Senior Administrative Officer for Equity + Community at the University of Richmond and associated faculty in the American Studies program. She is the author of More than Shelter: Community and Activism in San Francisco Public Housing.