Community–University Conversations | UB Graduate School of Education
Building stronger partnerships through conversation.
The Graduate School of Education's Community–University Conversations series brings together educators, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, school districts, policymakers, alumni, faculty, staff and students for thoughtful dialogue around the issues shaping education and our communities.
Rather than traditional lectures or presentations, each session is designed as an interactive conversation that encourages participants to listen, learn and explore opportunities for meaningful collaboration. Through panel discussions, audience engagement and facilitated dialogue, the series creates space to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and identify ways the Graduate School of Education and community partners can work together to address shared challenges.
Whether discussing educator preparation, workforce development, educational equity, community partnerships or emerging issues affecting schools, every conversation is grounded in a simple belief: the strongest solutions emerge when universities and communities learn from one another.
Who Should Attend
Community–University Conversations welcomes anyone interested in strengthening education and community partnerships, including:
- PreK–12 educators and school leaders
- Community and nonprofit organizations
- Faculty, staff and students
- Alumni
- Policymakers and civic leaders
- Educational service providers
- Anyone interested in advancing education through collaboration
What to Expect
Each session features invited panelists representing diverse perspectives and experiences. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussion, ask questions and contribute ideas in an informal, welcoming environment designed to foster authentic dialogue and lasting partnerships.
Community Partnerships in Action
March 13, 2026
The inaugural Community–University Conversations session explored how universities and community organizations can build reciprocal partnerships that strengthen education and create lasting impact throughout Western New York.
Discussion topics included:
- Preparing educators for evolving community needs
- College, career and life readiness
- Innovative partnership models
- Workforce development and artificial intelligence
- Building sustainable university–community collaborations
Featured panelists
- Alexa and Edreys Wajed, Eat Off Art
- Catherine Roberts, Resource Council of WNY
- Kathy Jamil, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County
- Christopher Hoadley, University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education
- Lauren Turner, University at Buffalo Alumni and Constituent Engagement
Partnering with PreK–12 Schools
April 24, 2026
The second conversation focused on strengthening partnerships between the Graduate School of Education and PreK–12 schools throughout Western New York. School leaders discussed the opportunities and challenges facing today's educational landscape while identifying collaborative approaches to preparing future educators and supporting schools.
Featured panelists
- Dr. Mustafa Kekec, Buffalo/Rochester Academy of Science Charter Schools
- Dr. Ramona Reynolds, Buffalo Public Schools
- Steve Graser, Erie 1 BOCES
- Rachael Greene, Stanley G. Falk School
- Michael Fisher, Orleans Niagara BOCES
Community–University Conversations is an ongoing series hosted by the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education to strengthen partnerships between the university and the communities it serves. Future sessions will explore timely topics affecting education while creating new opportunities for collaboration, innovation and shared learning. Want to learn more or get involved in a specific way? Contact Wil Green and/or Fenice Boyd to learn how!
Green, Wil
Assistant Dean of Outreach and Community Engagement
Senior Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity, Justice and Inclusion, and Faculty Affairs; Professor