Communities of Partnership

Dr. Jillian Gilbert. Director of the Center for Leadership by Design and Assistant Dean of the Devoe School of Business

They say it takes a village, and it truly does. One of the cornerstones of a thriving community is the collaboration among businesses, educational institutions, churches, nonprofits, and local leaders, all working together to nurture and empower community members. In principle, we aspire to this vision, but the reality is often more complex. Competing priorities and pressures can push communities into silos, leading to tunnel vision that prevents collaboration. This is even more evident when it comes to education beyond high school. It is not just the young who need encouragement, guidance, and opportunities for growth—adults do too. We all do.

Lifelong learning is not just a concept; it is a mindset that enriches both individuals and society. The more we learn, the better equipped we are to contribute to our communities. However, navigating the complexities of choosing an institution, selecting an area of study, navigating the time required, and managing the financial burden can make the prospect of going back to school feel overwhelming and out of reach. It can, at times feel lonely.

This is where partnerships can make a profound difference. Communities have the potential to thrive when they come together to support education. Higher education institutions can partner with local organizations to offer a more personalized, intentional, and affordable roadmap for learning. By rallying around individuals, communities can encourage them to achieve their goals, invest in their future, and provide support to make it to the finish line.

At Indiana Wesleyan University, we are committed to fostering these kinds of partnerships. Through our Bridge Initiative, we collaborate with churches and nonprofits to support lifelong learners. We provide personalized care, affordable tuition, and intentional collaboration to ensure each student can succeed. These partnerships go far beyond a business transaction—they are a community-wide commitment to creating accessible education pathways. Becoming a community of partnerships is one of the greatest blessings we can offer and one of the most important avenues to foster lifelong learning.  Without them, we miss the creativity, energy, and opportunity to fully support those who want to better themselves for their communities.