The urban university as good citizen: The American University of Beirut’s Neighborhood Initiative

Abstract

The American University of Beirut’s Neighborhood Initiative was launched in 2007 to encourage faculty and students to contribute to solving the problems affecting the district of Beirut located just outside the university walls. Among the issues addressed are congestion, poor walkability, near absence of greenery, an aging population, and growing disparities between rich and poor residents. Four challenges confront the Initiative: attracting over-committed faculty to work on local problems; raising funds for programmatic activities; creating meaningful relationships with neighbors and other stakeholders; and addressing the economic trends now transforming the neighborhood.