How to Avoid Stumbling While “Walking the Talk”: Supporting the Promise of Authentic Partnerships

This article discusses challenges faced by research centers engaging in community partnerships, as well as potential solutions. While many challenges in community-campus partnerships involve the engagement of community and the characteristics of the partnership, some university structures and policies can impede the collaboration even given a strong partnership. The lessons shared highlight potential pitfalls that need to be addressed as well as possible solutions that can support the campus in developing authentic collaboration.