The University of Michigan is launching a new center dedicated to boosting community involvement in archaeology and heritage research. Named the Center for Community Archaeology and Heritage (CCAH), it will officially open on March 14.
Dr. Geoff Emberling, the center’s first director, expressed excitement about the initiative. He believes that working together enhances the quality of archaeological research and helps protect cultural heritage. "It’s vital for the future of archaeology," Dr. Emberling said, especially at a time when humanities fields are fighting for recognition.
The CCAH has several goals:
- Support university faculty and students on collaborative archaeology projects.
- Provide accessible resources for community-involved archaeological work.
- Offer funding for students conducting community fieldwork and hosting discussions or seminars.
- Organize conferences every two years, complete with publications on findings.
In the coming years, the center plans to introduce fellowships for graduate and postdoctoral students, as well as faculty, to support various research efforts.
On March 15, the center will hold interactive events and discussions to engage the community.
This initiative is part of a broader trend in academia. Increasingly, universities are recognizing the importance of community collaboration in research. According to a recent survey by the American Association of Universities, 87% of institutions prioritize partnerships with local communities to enhance educational experiences.
This evolution reflects a shift in how academic research is conducted. Engaging with the community not only enriches the research but also fosters a sense of collective ownership over local history and heritage. As the CCAH embarks on this journey, it aims to inspire other institutions to follow suit and prioritize community connection.
For more details on the new center and its initiatives, you can visit the University of Michigan’s website.
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Source linkUniversity of Michigan,Ann Arbor,Washtenaw County
