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Broader Impacts Partners

The National Science Foundation (NSF) and other federal research agencies are increasingly emphasizing the need to justify not only the “intellectual merit” of proposed research, but also its “broader impacts.” The latter refers to the potential of the proposed project to benefit society and contribute to the achievement of specific, desired societal outcomes. A list of available resources to support development and execution of broader impacts is below:

Northwestern Internal Resources

  • Center for Civic Engagement
    Northwestern University’s Center for Civic Engagement promotes a lifelong commitment to active citizenship and social responsibility among all students. Through an integration of academics with meaningful volunteer service, research and community partnerships, the Center supports students, faculty, staff and alumni as they enhance their own academic experiences while contributing to stronger communities and a more engaged university.
  • Center for Talent Development
    The CTD at Northwestern University provides advanced academic programs and resources to enhance gifted education (age 4 – grade 12) through Saturday, summer, and online courses for gifted students.  They are always interested in new course offerings and instructors.
  • Research Communications
    As part of the Office for Research, Research Communications publicizes research advances at Northwestern in a variety of formats to facilitate and enhance the University’s research life, supporting thought leadership that advances discovery and benefits society.
  • Office for STEM Education Partnerships (OSEP)
    OSEP connects K-12 students to the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) resources of Northwestern University and beyond. OSEP also supports broader impacts, education, and outreach programs as part of federally funded research grants.
  • Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion
    The Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion aims to help create and sustain a diverse, inclusive and welcoming environment for all Northwestern community members including students, faculty, staff and alumni.Their website maintains diversity-related lists of campus resources and groups, academic programs and centers, and statistics.
  • Office of Student Engagement
    Student Engagement encourages, supports and complements student learning by providing quality services and programs that enrich students’ academic, social, cultural, ethical, and intellectual growth. They oversee the numerous undergraduate student groups at Northwestern that participate in tutoring, outreach, and other community service activities.
  • Science Cafe
    Science Cafe is an informal forum for the discussion of important and interesting scientific issues with interested members of the public.
  • Science in Society
    Science in Society is a Northwestern research center dedicated to science education and public engagement. Through partnerships with Chicago-area schools and community groups, they train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community-centered way.
  • Searle Center
    The Searle Center promotes high-quality teaching and learning at Northwestern by working with instructors to enhance their teaching and with undergraduates to enhance their learning. They also conduct research and evaluation on teaching and learning in higher education.
  • The Graduate School Diversity Programs
    TGS’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion hosts Introduction to Graduate Education at Northwestern, leads the Summer Research Opportunity Program, coordinates recruitment visits, partners with Admissions and Recruitment on awarding Diversity Fellowships, and oversees the issuing of our annual TGS Diversity Report.
  • Global Marketing and Communications  
    University Relations creates print and online communications, promotes Northwestern, and provides communications counsel to showcase accomplishments that advance the University’s reputation as a top research and teaching institution.

Local Community Resources

The resources listed below offer opportunities to contribute to established programs and/or partner to create focused educational initiatives, events, or curricula.  Note that not all current programs are advertised on the websites.  Please contact us to inquire about current programs and obtain specific contact information relevant to your interest.

Schools and Libraries

Outreach Organizations and Programs

Public Educational Facilities

Agency Sponsored Networks