Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development

03/04/2026

We Want Your Voice! Take Our Quick Survey

A Stevenson Fellow is conducting an IRB-approved study through ISU examining how data tools and processes are used in community development. The study seeks input from professionals in local government, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and other community-serving organizations in community development.

The survey takes approximately 15–20 minutes to complete. Participation will help improve understanding of how organizations use data to support community outcomes and inform future tools and resources for practitioners.

If you or your colleagues are involved in community development work, your perspective would be valuable.

Survey link:
https://lnkd.in/gGbAistd

02/25/2026

The Stevenson Center will be participating in Birds Give Back this year and we invite you to join us in this effort as we continue to provide meaningful opportunities, experiences, and support for our Applied Community and Economic Development (ACED) students.

To donate, please visit the Birds Give Back website on Thursday, February 26.

https://birdsgiveback.illinoisstate.edu/campaigns/stevenson-center-for-community-and-economic-development

No amount is too small, and every gift is appreciated. Thank you for your generosity and investment in these emerging leaders in community and economic development!

02/02/2026

‼️ application deadline EXTENDED!

Interested in hosting a talented graduate fellow through the Stevenson Center? We’re excited to share that the Host a Fellow application deadline has been extended to February 6, 2026.

This is a great opportunity for organizations to partner with the Stevenson Center and work with highly skilled, mission-driven graduate students who bring fresh perspectives, research capacity, and professional expertise to host sites.

If your organization is seeking meaningful collaboration while contributing to the professional development of future leaders, we encourage you to take advantage of this extended deadline and submit an application.

📅 New deadline: February 6, 2026
📩 Questions or need support? We’re happy to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out!

01/21/2026

Interested in learning more? Join one of our upcoming information sessions to explore partnership opportunities with the Stevenson Center and ask questions live.

01/21/2026

The Stevenson Center connects mission-driven organizations with talented graduate students to tackle real-world challenges through applied research, strategy, and community engagement.

We’re seeking partners who want to:
• Advance their mission
• Gain fresh perspectives and innovative solutions
• Collaborate with highly skilled, purpose-driven professionals

Partner organizations benefit from:
✔ Dedicated, skilled fellows
✔ Data-driven insights and strategic recommendations
✔ Long-term impact and mission alignment

If your organization is ready to make a difference while building capacity, we’d love to explore a partnership.

11/13/2025

Let's partner with purpose! The Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development is seeking community partners interested in hosting a Graduate Fellow. Our Fellows bring skills in community planning, data analysis, and a passion for creating positive change in communities.

If your organization could benefit from a talented graduate student ready to make an impact, we’d love to connect!

Comment below or message us to learn more about hosting opportunities.

04/23/2025

Another great article on an ACED Anthropology student!

Design influences our lives in ways we often don’t realize. It’s present in the schools we attend, the offices where we work, and the homes we live in. Sierra Mack-Erb researches the po…

03/28/2025

We are beyond excited to announce our new Master in Public Health degree option in the Applied Community Economic Development (ACED) sequence!

If you or someone you know is interested in applying, email Dane Myers at [email protected] to learn how.

03/19/2025

Back by popular demand!

03/07/2025

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/breana-brown_thank-you-illinois-state-university-and-activity-7303826960076423173-45G9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhq2vsBxxkT8j6IDNPUnHvaaoAUKI05LVA

Thank you, Illinois State University and Illinois State University Alumni Association, for not only honoring me during Women’s History Month but for standing by your commitment to help build our legacy for every Redbird! I’m not sure if you fully realize the history you've just made—not ju...

02/28/2025

https://news.illinoisstate.edu/2025/02/learning-from-the-past-developing-the-future-an-aced-fellows-journey/
Please check out this article that highlights one of ISU's amazing ACED Fellows, Laura Keeran!

Laura Keeran, an anthropology master’s student, found the perfect fit in the Stevenson Center as an ACED fellow.