We want to make this process as simple as possible. You will enter your partnership information into an online form. If you need to make changes after you’ve submitted the form, contact OERD at PartnershipsSupport@niu.edu, and we’ll update your information. You do not need to enter all partnerships in one log-in session, but you can enter up to 5 in one session.
We recognize that there are many different types of partnerships. We ask that faculty and staff share information about partnerships that demonstrate mutual benefit between NIU individuals/entities and external individuals/entities.
Partnerships vary in intensity and longevity and in many other ways. A simple typology will help us to track growth in each of these types. One type is not better or more important than the others; the type of relationship depends on the goal of the partnership. Some partnerships may develop over time from one point on the continuum to the next. In other cases, simple coordination is the ideal level of partnership.
Here’s a simple table that gives attributes of each of the three levels of partnership. Your partnership(s) may not be an exact match but select the level that seems closest to your experience.
| Coordinating | Cooperating | Collaborating |
|---|---|---|
| Exchanging information for mutual benefit | Exchanging information for mutual benefit | Exchanging information for mutual benefit |
| Altering activities for mutual benefit | Altering activities for mutual benefit | Altering activities for mutual benefit |
| Sharing resources for mutual benefit | Sharing resources for mutual benefit | |
| Enhancing the capacity of each other for mutual benefit and common purpose | ||
| Exploring shared vision | ||
| Mutual financial resource development |
The primary purpose for collecting this information is to get an idea of the number of NIU is proud to be classified as a Carnegie Engaged Institution. Throughout this year, a team of faculty and staff are working on a self-study as we prepare to apply for reclassification in 2025. Your input will allow us to celebrate and support partnerships already happening and explore new partnership opportunities.