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NERLab’s research reports share findings from collaborative, community-engaged studies grounded in the perspectives of local residents. Each report reflects our commitment to building knowledge that supports more equitable and reciprocal community–campus relationships.

Shifting the Paradigm

Neighborliness as a Community-Identified Framework for Community-Campus Relationships

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This inaugural report from the NERLab explores what it means for institutions of higher education to act as good neighbors, grounded in the perspectives of Providence residents. Developed collaboratively by students, faculty, and community members, the study draws on nearly two dozen in-depth interviews and more than 100 hours of community-based engagement.

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A central finding is the distinction between being a neighbor (defined by geographic proximity) and acting neighborly—reflecting intentional presence, relationship-building, and sustained engagement. From this insight, the report shares a set of Principles and Practices for Neighborly Engagement, offering a community-identified framework to support more equitable community-campus relationships. Designed as both a guide and a practical tool, the framework invites institutions to reflect on their current approaches and identify ways to deepen and strengthen relationships with the communities around them.

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