Shared Vision as the Foundation for a University-Community Collaboration

Abstract

The manner in which an a priori shared vision between a public university and a not-for-profit applied research institute formed the foundation for a university-community collaboration is described. Senge's 3 levels of shared vision are used as a framework for describing and explaining the development of the collaboration and the establishment of a Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Education. Accomplishments to date and future activities are described as well as lessons learned and implications for forging collaborative relationships.