Declaration of Metropolitan Universities
We, the leaders of metropolitan universities and colleges. . .
- reaffirm that the creation, interpretation, dissemination, and application of knowledge are the fundamental functions of our institutions;
- accept a broad responsibility to bring these functions to bear on our metropolitan regions;
- commit our institutions to be responsive to the needs of our communities by seeking new ways of using resources to provide leadership in addressing metropolitan problems through teaching, research, and service.
Our teaching must:
- educate students to be informed and effective citizens, as well as capable practitioners of professions and occupations;
- be adapted to the diverse needs of metropolitan students, including minorities and underserved groups, adults of all ages, and the place-bound;
- combine research-based knowledge with practical application and experience, using the best current technology and pedagogical techniques.
Our research must:
- seek and exploit opportunities for linking basic investigations with practical application, and for creating interdisciplinary partnerships for attacking complex metropolitan problems, while meeting the highest standards of the academic community.
Our professional service must:
- develop creative partnerships with public and private enterprises that ensure the intellectual resources of our institutions are fully engaged in mutually beneficial ways;
- include close working relationships with elementary and secondary schools aimed at maximizing the effectiveness of the entire metropolitan education system;
- make the fullest possible contribution to the cultural life and general quality of life of our metropolitan regions.