Past Projects
2022
Gonzalez Projects
MIIS, through CoLab, partnered with a local government in South Monterey County, resulting in a range of initiatives focused on youth—spanning from mental health support and youth development success tracking to small business startups. MIIS also conducted research that the city typically lacks the capacity to do, effectively acting as a “think tank” to support local efforts.
MIIS impact analysis
CoLab conducted an internal study to assess MIIS students’ and staff’s involvement in the local community through coursework, research projects, internships, and volunteering. The goal was to map MIIS’s footprint in Monterey County and better understand the school’s impact and engagement at the local level.
Engagement with Monterey County Indigenous Communities
Led by Dr. Netta Avineri, MIIS collaborated closely with Indigenous communities in Monterey County to build meaningful relationships and mutual understanding. Through events, storytelling, and sustained engagement, the goal was to foster genuine connection and co-create a land acknowledgment—one that emerged organically from community voices and experiences.
2023
Community of Practice
Conference as Curriculum
As part of a broader experiential learning initiative, MIIS faculty, staff, and students participated in the “All-In” conference at UC Santa Cruz, which serves as a training ground for community-engaged scholarship. In preparation, MIIS and Cal State students engaged in joint sessions to build shared understanding and context. This process helped deepen understanding of community-engaged research (CER), leading to the development of new frameworks, resources, and teaching strategies for faculty.
Community-Engaged Research Resources
As part of the Community of Practice initiative, MIIS developed a suite of research materials to guide faculty, staff, and students in conducting community-driven research. These resources provide practical tools and frameworks to ensure mutual benefit between academic institutions and community stakeholders.
Client Project Approach and Process
MIIS developed a structured approach to help local governments and nonprofits collaborate effectively with faculty, students, and staff on community-engaged research projects. This process outlines how community partners can propose projects, what support they can expect, and how academic teams can align their work with real-world needs.
2024
TAMC Fellowship
The TAMC Fellowship is a ongoing, long-term partnership between the Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) and the Transportation Agency for Monterey County. Over the next five years, MIIS students, faculty, and staff will collaborate on projects that promote language inclusion, community engagement, sustainability, and livability throughout Monterey County.
Pajaro Survey Project
In collaboration with the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) Climate Justice initiative and the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, MIIS CoLab worked to interview residents of Pajaro, CA, about their experiences during and after the March 2023 flood and levee break. Fellows conducted interviews, analyzed data, and contributed to report writing for the project. The survey findings were used for policy advocacy at the local and state levels in California, aiming to address the needs and experiences of the Pajaro community in the aftermath of the disaster.
Community Engagement
MIIS supported several efforts to deepen ties with the broader Monterey community. The Community Fair, co-hosted with Student Services and the JEDI Office, offered clubs an opportunity to connect with local organizations. Additionally, a Community Convening created space for open dialogue—inviting feedback on what’s working in current partnerships and what needs improvement, helping to shape future community engagement strategies.
