Facilitating Community Engagement in Academic Pharmacy Careers

Abstract

Abstract

Utilizing a Multi-Step Consensus-Building Process to Create a Shared Departmental Definition of Community Engagement

“…5 It must be recognized, for example, that building trusting relationships with the community takes time and a willingness to "let go" of some details to share ownership of projects with the community. 5 It is beneficial when the institution recognizes engagement as an approach to research, practice, and service and not just a stand-alone activity. 5 In an effort to increase community engagement in academic pharmacy careers, the 2004-05 American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Argus Commission Report addressed the call for greater civic responsibility on the part of institutions of higher education.…”

“…5 It is beneficial when the institution recognizes engagement as an approach to research, practice, and service and not just a stand-alone activity. 5 In an effort to increase community engagement in academic pharmacy careers, the 2004-05 American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Argus Commission Report addressed the call for greater civic responsibility on the part of institutions of higher education. This Commission also examined opportunities to expand research and scholarship that focused on improving community health.…”

“… 3 , 4 Despite the recognized value of community engagement in academia, barriers to implementing sustainable and fruitful community partnerships continue to challenge the academic community. 5 , 6 , 7 One identified barrier to incorporating community engagement into an academic department is the lack of common definition of what constitutes community engagement. 5 A particular department's lack of shared vision for community engagement was determined to be a significant barrier to the implementation of sustainable and fruitful partnerships.…”

“… 5 , 6 , 7 One identified barrier to incorporating community engagement into an academic department is the lack of common definition of what constitutes community engagement. 5 A particular department's lack of shared vision for community engagement was determined to be a significant barrier to the implementation of sustainable and fruitful partnerships.…”

“…Academic pharmacy has not consistently realized the benefits of community engagement, and incorporation of engagement into academic pharmacy careers has not been without its challenges. 5 It must be recognized, for example, that building trusting relationships with the community takes time and a willingness to “let go” of some details to share ownership of projects with the community. 5 It is beneficial when the institution recognizes engagement as an approach to research, practice, and service and not just a stand-alone activity.…”