AITF Newsletter - September 2026
The September AITF newsletter is now live!
Read the full newsletter here: AITF September 2026 Newsletter
This issue of the AITF Newsletter continues our exploration of the theme Values in Action, highlighting how anchor institutions are building sustained, reciprocal relationships to confront pressing challenges in their communities. From exploring the binational reach of the University of San Diego to detailing the upcoming plenary sessions at our Annual Event, this edition showcases the vital contributions of cross-sector partnerships in driving democratic practice, social justice, and local resilience.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
Updates on AITF’s 2026 Annual Event (November 5, 10am–3pm Eastern, at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in Princeton, NJ), featuring deep dives into Values in Action through three plenary panels focusing on local cross-sector partnerships, the role of foundations as anchor institutions, and strategic directions for the anchor field.
An Extended Call for Essays on Communications and Storytelling (deadline October 15), inviting members to share their experiences and specific stories illustrating the internal and external realities of being an engaged anchor institution locally.
A Member Profile on the University of San Diego, exploring their role as a binational anchor institution, their 40-year commitment to the Linda Vista neighborhood, and their physical and educational investments across the border in Tijuana.
Anchor Fellows Program Updates, announcing the new cohort of 2027 Fellows and previewing the inspiring reflections from our current Fellows at the upcoming Annual Event.
Publications and Subgroup News, including a call for essays on leadership for Volume 4 of the AITF Leadership Guide Series and a reminder of the mutual encouragement and shared resilience found within AITF Subgroups.
Resources from the Field, featuring actionable insights such as AAC&U’s new report on advancing public trust in higher education, a free toolkit for community-engaged learning, and details on upcoming learning spaces and conferences.
News, Articles, and New Research, highlighting cross-sector collaborations and expansions across the globe, including the BBC's strategic partnership with Birmingham City University, Knight Foundation support for Florida Memorial University, and new publications tracing the history of community schools and evaluating the impact of anchor institutions.
Each month, the AITF Newsletter shares insights, research, and real-world examples of anchor institutions putting values into practice across sectors and geographies.
Stay Connected & Get Involved Each issue of the Anchor Institutions Task Force Newsletter provides updates on anchor practice, leadership, and research from across sectors. Sign up for the mailing list to receive future issues, event announcements, and resources from the field.
If you have updates about your work, resources, or articles that you would like to share with the AITF network, please email Mala Coomar at mala.c@margainc.com.
