In the community
UCalgary is proud to partner with community organizations, not-for-profits and other educational institutions. We build on existing relationships, actively seek out new partnerships and endeavor to enhance the university’s role in the community.
United Way
United Way of Calgary and Area focuses on creating positive change in the areas of Poverty, Kids, and Communities by investing in social programs and special initiatives. United Way is working to create a social safety net that will allow our city to achieve lasting change. As a city builder, UCalgary has been a committed partner, running a university wide fundraising campaign every fall. In 2020, we raised a record $780,511.
Calgary Stampede
The Stampede is part of the fabric of what it means to be a Calgarian. The university is proud to participate in the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.’ However, our partnership extends far beyond the 10 days.
City of Calgary
Great cities need great universities. The University of Calgary collaborates with The City of Calgary in many ways to support evidence-based decision-making and to contribute to the development of municipal strategies, policies and plans.
In addition to research taking place on an ongoing basis throughout the university which has implications for civic issues, formal partnerships such as the Urban Alliance support the university to conduct, translate, and catalyze research in collaboration with City business units to have a positive impact in our city.
Through this strategic partnership, the City engages top researchers who seek out and implement solutions to pressing municipal issues through high-quality research. The Urban Alliance provides a framework for leading-edge researchers and City Administration to work together to tackle issues such as transportation, waste reduction, energy and environment, youth crime, homelessness, poverty, and immigration.
Calgary Pride
UCalgary is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful learning environment and workplace. We value diversity through the three pillars of our Eyes High strategy. We are proud to partner with Calgary Pride.
Additional community partners
Beakerhead
Beakerhead, a not-for-profit organization, aims to bring people together at the crossroads of art, science and engineering. The UCalgary community has participated in programs since the first year of the festival in 2013. Faculty members from Arts, Kinesiology, Science, Schulich School of Engineering, and others have presented their research to the public at Beakerhead through art installations, lectures and other activations – both on and off campus.
Calgary Economic Development
We believe entrepreneurial thinking is essential to enriching lives and advancing society. To continue driving Calgary as Canada’s most enterprising city, we work closely with Calgary Economic Development (CED) throughout the year, including as a Team Calgary Connector partner.
Alberta Health Services
A partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS) is critical for the teaching and research done by Cumming School of Medicine, Faculty of Nursing and others. makeCalgary is an example of unique initiative focused on community-engaged research for a healthy city.
Calgary Public Library
Since 2015 the Library and UCalgary have presented Idea Igniters, a speaker series that brings the work of scholars into the community, presenting their research at local library branches. Several faculties present their work through the Library including via the Ultimate Summer Challenge.
Calgary Youth Science Fair
UCalgary is proud to partner with, and host, the Calgary Youth Science Fair (CYSF). The CYSF inspires youth to discover their potential in STEM, attracting bright hardworking students to grow their great ideas into initiatives they can take into the larger world.
Alberta Ballet
Our partnership with Albert Ballet is part of being a key player in the evolving cultural landscape of Calgary. UCalgary has a unique research partnership that is committed to reduce injury and promote preventative health for dancers.
South Shaganappi Area Strategic Planning Group
Along with many surrounding companies and community associations, UCalgary sits on the strategic planning committee for northwest Calgary communities that are effected by upcoming plans for infrastructure growth.
Wilson Center
UCalgary and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars (Wilson Center) have established a five-year partnership, hosting the first event in 2015. This partnership provides an opportunity for discussion on the bilateral relationship between Canada and the United States.