Rules of Engagement

In this episode, host Makeda Zulu speaks with Dr. Ann Johnson of the Northside Achievement Zone and Professor Lesa Clarkson of Prepare2Nspire  about their powerful collaboration to support youth in North Minneapolis. Together, they explore how improving math skills, fostering leadership, and providing service-learning opportunities are transforming lives—both for K-12 students and college mentors, highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing educational equity and building a stronger future for our communities.

Heart disease is a leading cause of death, and heart health disparities disproportionately impact Black and Indigenous women, who often have a practice of pushing through pain without seeking help. This is a dangerous combination, but awareness saves lives. In this episode Makeda Zulu, Angela Conley, and Samantha Lucas-Pipkorn and Abbie Zahler from Hennepin County Public Health discuss awareness, prevention, equity and access for women.

NorthPoint Health and Wellness center has been a steadfast partner and loyal advocate of UROC’s when it was still a vision and called the University Northside Partnership. Hear how the University of Minnesota through UROC works with and serves the local communities holistically.  

Dr. Sayali Amarapurkar from SEWA-AIFW and Dr. Angelica Koch, Assistant Director of CEARCH sit down for a conversation on how CTSI, CEARCH, and Sewa AIFW are fostering trust, collaboration, and equity in research, and inspiring the next generation of researchers committed to making a difference.

Pittsburgh’s approach to engaged research proves that the strongest community partnerships are built on trust, not just funding. In this episode of Rules of Engagement, Dr. Lina Dostilio, a leading voice in engaged scholarship, and Vice Chancellor for Engagement & Community Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh, talks about how the University works alongside diverse neighborhoods to create lasting change. From amplifying community voices to navigating complex challenges, Dr. Dostilio shares lessons that go beyond theory—showing how research can drive real, sustainable impact.

Dr. Francis Shen is challenging the notion that young people should be placed in adult detention centers.  As we all know intuitively, young people’s reasoning part of the brain is still developing into their twenties.  The Masonic Institute on the Developing Brain continues to be a leader in brain development research, Dr. Shen continues that tradition. 

Host Makeda Zulu explores how storytelling, culture, and public health intersect to promote healing in community. Learn how the University of Minnesota Extension is teaming up with the Black Storytellers Alliance and UROC to engage local communities in the fight against cardiovascular disease. The University of Minnesota Extension has been recognized nationally by the CDC for its effectiveness in combating diabetes. Tune in to hear real stories, community-driven strategies, and how you can support this meaningful work.

UROC welcomed Adriano Udani as the new Director of Community-Engaged Research. In this episode learn more about Adriano as he reflects on his journey leading up to his new role, and his plans to continue impactful work in research, community, and leadership.

The legalization of cannabis has opened doors for change and growth. In this episode, Makeda Zulu chats with Anthony Newby, Max Zappi, and Professor Rhonda Jones-Webb from the University of Minnesota about the financial and social impacts of marijuana legalization in Minnesota, and how communities that have historically been the most impacted can benefit economically from the growing cannabis industry.

The University of Minnesota’s Office for Public Engagement (OPE) is widely considered a national leader in advancing community-engaged research, teaching, and outreach that addresses the most pressing issues of our time. Together UROC and OPE work to make their vision of public engagement a reality. Discover how OPE builds and supports infrastructure throughout the University’s five-campus system that promotes deep, mutually beneficial partnerships for scholars, students, and communities throughout Minnesota and beyond.