UMKC's Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) recently received recognition for Best Volunteer Engagement in Region VI as part of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education's (CASE) annual Circle of Excellence Awards.

The Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) is a partnership between UMKC and neighborhoods surround its Volker Campus including  Countryside, Manheim Park, Rockhill Crest, Rockhill Ridge, South Plaza, Troostwood, 49/63, Crestwood, Rockhill Homes, Southmoreland, Troost Plateau; as well as At-Large community members representing the local business community, the City of Kansas City, MO, and Rockhurst Universty.

The NAC was founded on a mutual goal—a vibrant community that serves the needs of those who study, live, and work within its borders.

The NAC represents UMKC's commitment to achieving that goal through collaboration, respect, and the opportunity for collective understanding and impact. UMKC recognizes the NAC as the university's standing organization for neighborhood dialogue with respect to the planning and community relations of the Volker campus.

Nearly 200 universities hold membership in CASE District VI, spanning both public and private institutions across Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

The NAC was selected for "facilitating robust participation by a group of community constituents that helps to advance the institution in a meaningful way." The judges based their selection on a variety of criteria, including:

-Creativity and innovation

-Impact and results

-Strategy and methodology

-Ability to serve as a model for other institutions

-Use of resources (budget, people, and time) and return on investment

The group's quarterly meetings are open to the general public.