BUILDING WIN-WIN COLLABORATIONS

TO GROW PROGRAMS

Presenters

• Paul Sanders, Executive Director, Center for College Readiness

• Carroll Scherer, Director of Professional Programs

Why Reaching Out to Collaborate is Valuable

• Brings community issues and ideas to the forefront • Strategic relationships results in development of

resources– Fresh ideas– Instructors– Funding– Facilities– Marketing channels– Strengthens both parties’ reputations– Promotes both parties in the public eye– Results in development of new programs

Success FactorsVolunteer-Run Organizations, Cultural &

Social Service Organizations• Relationship must survive leadership turnover

- Win-win - In writing preferable- One can’t overstep the other- History often carried by university- Develop multiple contacts in the org.

• Clear delineation of roles and responsibilities of both parties• Collaborative program design & marketing• Be aware of cultural differences/considerations• Evaluation of educational programs communicated to partner• Stewardship of ongoing and former partners - clear and frequent

communication• Be adaptable as relationship deepens and changes• Be willing to serve in additional capacities

Center for College Readiness:Importance for Establishing Strategic

PartnershipsWhy?• Develop relationships with local education leaders and district administrators• Diversify program portfolio & increase profile within the institution• Proactively respond to training needs in throughout the education community

How?• Meetings and presentations with external partners• Receive support and contributions from Rice faculty and staffRequirements for success when establishing partnerships:• Patience• Persistence• Understanding• Time

CASE STUDY: Rice University, the College Board and AVID partnership

Advantages ofForming Advisory Boards

• University takes vital leadership role • Bring like-minded individuals and organizations

together• Reform or improve a community issue or need• Promotes buy-in & ownership from partners• Members help:– Define and drive the program– Advocacy of members is critical to program success and

acceptance by the community– Market the program – Raise funds

When Collaborations Don’t Work

When Collaborations Don’t Work

• Visions do not match• One wants more control• The “win” is one-sided • Too taxing on university resources• Too much competition; market saturated• Doesn’t fit in strategy

However…

Be Prepared to Recycle

Never throw in the towel!