Forum Network

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter presents the state's inaugural Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Partnership Award at the University of Massachusetts, Boston's Campus Center to the University Park Partnership, a collaboration of Worcester's Clark University and the nonprofit Main South Community Development Corp.

The award, which carries a $10,000 prize, is the nation's most prestigious recognition for collaborations between colleges and universities and their neighboring communities. The Massachusetts award was organized by UMass Boston and the Massachusetts Campus Compact.

Three finalists and the winning project were chosen from among 21 entries by an independent panel of experts. The University Park Partnership focuses on promoting economic development, education, social programs, public safety and homeownership in one of Worcester's poorest neighborhoods.

Selected from 21 entrants, the three finalists were:

The Mission Hill-Fenway Technology Collaborative, Boston, Mass, a partnership of Wentworth Institute of Technology and the nonprofit Mission Main Resident Services Corporation. The project helps low-income residents develop technology skills, expand knowledge and capacity, and promote community through technology.

The Possible Selves Partnership, a project of Mount Holyoke College, in South Hadley, Mass, and the nonprofit Girls Inc. of Holyoke. The partnership provides inner-city teenage girls with avenues of expression and support as they explore their own futures.

The University Park Partnership, Worcester, Mass, a collaboration between Clark University and the nonprofit Main South Community Development Corporation. The program focuses on promoting economic development, education, social programs, public safety and homeownership in one of the city's poorest neighborhoods.

Initiated in 2000 by the College of Arts and Sciences at Georgia State University, the Carter Partnership Award is named for President and Mrs. Carter as a tribute to their lifelong efforts to develop and support safe, healthy, and caring communities throughout the world. Massachusetts is one of four states recently chosen as expansion sites for The Carter Partnership Award.