On Monday, August 13, Barry University launched its Community Engagement Management System. Referred to as CEMS, the system is managed by the Center for Community Service Initiatives, or CCSI. The system’s URL is http://www.barry.edu/service/.
CEMS was developed by the Software Solutions Unit of the Division of Information Technology in collaboration with the CCSI. Members of the software solutions team are Kerri-Quaan Stewart, director of software solutions; Grace Ralfelt, solutions architect; and Joan Pascual, applications developer.
CEMS is a centralized system that allows users to access resources on various community engagement initiatives targeted to students, faculty, staff, and community partners. Resources are categorized as service-learning, community-based research, engaged scholarship, programs, reflection, and volunteer service. Service-learning syllabi, full-text scholarly articles, and e-books are included, as are announcements of engagement-related events, fellowships, and grants.
Students, faculty, and staff must enter their Barry username and password to log into the system, which allows the user’s profile to be created. Registered community partners will also have access.
The CCSI is Barry’s clearinghouse for community engagement information, resources, and opportunities. The center has developed a comprehensive community engagement strategy that includes collaborative activities in the areas of teaching, research, and service.
The CCSI is interested in feedback from both campus and community constituencies. Feedback may be submitted through the system or via e-mail to Dr. Glenn Bowen, director of the CCSI, at gbowen@mail.barry.edu.