The traditional pastoralism of American higher education has interfered with efforts to develop an urban mission for the university. In addition, current open-door metaphors of access, political trends, and media coverage are promulgating closed-door, wall-building rhetoric and policies. Now is the time to counter antiurban attitudes by reviving…

Faculty evaluation and reward definitions should include an expanded definition of scholarly teaching and service. Community college faculty, who focus on teaching, should participate in the public discussion of faculty roles to shape its outcome, to strengthen ties with four-year institutions, and to clarify their own role. (JB)

This article outlines steps toward university collaboration with local arts organizations to enhance local cultural life in medium-sized cities. It illustrates these steps with examples from practice and discusses how to maintain ongoing collaborations. Major benefits from such partnerships and factors requiring attention to ensure success are…

Metropolitan research universities are at the vanguard in addressing current challenges to society. They are successful because they can integrate service and outreach into their mission. To enhance their role, universities should encourage and reward those who can make contributions outside the traditional research model.(JB)

Urban universities' fine and performing arts programs can influence the image and mission of the university as a cultural partner in the community. Examples include production and presentation of events, nondegree educational programs for all ages, and collaborative associations with urban arts agencies. A Towson State University (Maryland)…

Impediments to teamwork in higher education may change slowly as some apparent impediments represent institutional strengths for other purposes. Encouraging teamwork must include removing impediments, rewarding teamwork in tenure and promotion decisions, and offering explicit incentives for teamwork. (JB)

North Texas Institute for Educators on the Visual Arts, a consortium of six school districts, five museums, two arts councils, two state agencies, and the University of North Texas, has strived to improve education in the visual arts for K-6 children and to develop better educated audiences for area museums. (JB)

Colleges and Schools of Fine Arts at urban universities must be responsible for preparing teachers for K-12 education, altering models of preservice programs, supporting inservice programs, and supplementing diminishing art education in schools. Programs at Wayne State University (Michigan), University of Montana, and University of Illinois at…