Central Michigan University
EN-10: Community Partnerships

Central Michigan University (CMU) and the Saginaw- Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan (SCIT of MI), entered into a formal community partnership in 2007. For the past decade, CMU and SCIT of MI, have worked collaboratively to enhance the social equity & well being, economic prosperity, as well as ecological health of the local community, CMU & the Tribe's infrastructure and operations, additional to all individuals included within these boundaries. This partnership is mutually beneficial, ongoing and focuses on all areas of sustainability.

CMU has provided support for SCIT of MI in many ways. One such outlet, is the use of financial resources to provide the SCIT of MI with undergraduate and graduate level interns and graduate assistants. These individuals apply research to improve the sustainable use of resources, increase efficiency within operations and infrastructure and conduct cultural & diversity enhancement projects.

An example of one such application, includes a feasibility study of modeling CMU's composting program at the Soaring Eagle Casino. CMU is working with the SCIT of MI to identify the most efficient way to create a comprehensive organics recovery operation, in conjunction with the University's existing program.

Programs such as a co-mentoring program & the Youth Lead program, have catalyzed an increase in the social equity & well being of community members & students alike. These programs offer unique opportunities for individuals to engage in cross-cultural mentoring in an academic setting, as well as in a personal setting. Further, these programs increase academic success, leading to enriched economic prosperity within affected community members.

In 2014, CMU & the SCIT of MI, formally created the Tribal Planning Department, which addresses developmental aspects of new cultural, economic and ecological initiatives.

In 2019-2020, CMU and the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College (SCTC) partnered to implement a composting program at the Andahwod Continuing Care Community- a tribal elderly home. This program has a central focus on cultural and environmental sustainability, aiming to reduce food waste through cultural education about composting.

CMU & the SCIT of MI, collaborate comprehensively in partnership endeavors. As such, all parties, including SCIT of MI members, classified as underrepresented groups/vulnerable populations, engage in strategic planning, decision-making, implementation and review, equally. Working together, CMU & the SCIT of MI have created a long-lasting and highly beneficial partnership.

Please reference attachment below for formal affiliation agreement and program information.

“There’s only one way to create a strong regional economy: regional cooperation and collaboration. It was under this premise that the Bay Area, Midland Area and Saginaw County Chambers of Commerce, along with Bay Future, Midland Tomorrow and Saginaw Future Inc., formed a regional alliance called VISION TRI-COUNTY, now the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance with the addition of
Isabella County which brought in Central Michigan University. The members of the Alliance have worked together to build on the regional strengths critical to both individual and collective futures. The Alliance members are fully committed to this collaborative effort, which capitalizes on the region's many amenities that allow us to build a dynamic, unique, and prosperous future. Protection of Bay area resources, a recognition of the value of tourism and the value of a sustainable economy has resulted in institutions of higher learning participating in the sustainability committee of this group”(Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance).

http://greatlakesbay.com/

For years, CMU has hosted the Michigan Special Olympics competition. We work with underrepresented groups, and CMU volunteers who commit thousands of hours annually to the program. Special Olympics aims to advance underrepresented groups, and raise awareness for social injustice, while providing a fun opportunity for athletes and families.
https://www.somi.org/

Central Michigan University has a strong connection with the Special Olympics Program, as well as numerous school districts, community volunteer organizations, and companies which hire CMU graduates.