National Higher Education Leader to Keynote Auburn’s 2025 Outreach and Engaged Scholarship Symposium

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AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn University is proud to announce that Professor David J. Weerts, a nationally recognized scholar in higher education and public engagement, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Outreach and Engaged Scholarship Symposium on August 28.

Weerts is professor of higher education and associate vice provost for public engagement at the University of Minnesota. His research and leadership have shaped how universities across the U.S. and internationally build strategic partnerships with communities, policymakers, alumni and donors. He also directs the Engagement Academy for University Leaders, a professional development program that has trained more than 1,300 leaders from 160 institutions in five countries.

Hosted by Auburn’s Office of Faculty Engagement, the annual symposium brings together faculty, staff and community partners to explore best practices in community-engaged scholarship. This year’s theme, “Catalytic Engagement through Strategic Access, Opportunity & Collaboration,” reflects Auburn’s commitment to advancing meaningful, reciprocal partnerships that drive positive change.

“We are honored to welcome Professor Weerts to Auburn,” said Chippewa Thomas, director of Faculty Engagement. “His work exemplifies the kind of catalytic engagement we aim to foster through this symposium.”

The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Reserve your seat today and learn more at Outreach and Engaged Scholarship Symposium.

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