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Office of Government and Community Relations
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About the Office of Government and Community Relations

Connecting the University of Rochester with policymakers, leaders, and organizations to foster progress and collaboration.

Advancing the University’s mission through connection

At the Office of Government and Community Relations, our mission is to foster partnerships that empower the University of Rochester to thrive as a leader in education, research, health, and innovation. Guided by the spirit of Meliora—the pursuit of ever better—we work to:

  • Advocate for policies that enhance the University’s impact.
  • Build meaningful connections with government, business, academic, industry, and community partners.
  • Create opportunities that drive economic and social progress and enhance the well-being and vibrancy in the Rochester, Finger Lakes and Southern Tier communities and beyond.

Our vision is a future where collaboration fuels transformative change, advancing the well-being of our community and strengthening the University’s global leadership.

Meet the team behind our advocacy

Our team advances policies, builds partnerships, and strengthens the University’s impact at every level.

Core values

Rooted in service, innovation, and partnership

The Office of Government and Community Relations is guided by values that reflect the University of Rochester’s commitment to excellence and its role as a leader in education, research, healthcare, innovation, arts and culture, economic development, and community engagement.

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Advocacy for progress

Supporting policies that advance education, healthcare, and research to benefit the University and the wider community.

Two women performing a handstand in a dance class on the University of Rochester campus.

Collaboration for impact

Partnering with local, state, and federal leaders and community organizations to drive meaningful initiatives.

Two individuals seated at a table with a laptop on the University of Rochester campus, engaged in discussion.

Integrity in action

Ensuring transparency and accountability in all advocacy efforts, adhering to strict compliance standards.

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Commitment to engage

Fostering opportunities that uplift diverse perspectives and create positive change for all.

Partners and affiliations

Building connections that amplify impact

The Office of Government and Community Relations collaborates with key partners across sectors to drive initiatives that support the University’s mission and benefit the broader community. Explore our areas of partnership:

Government agencies

We work closely with local, state, and federal governments to advocate for policies and funding that advance education, research, and healthcare. These efforts help strengthen the University’s impact and ensure resources are directed to critical initiatives.

Community organizations

Collaboration with nonprofits, neighborhood groups, and advocacy coalitions is central to addressing local challenges. Together, we tackle issues such as health disparities, economic development, and educational access, creating opportunities that benefit all.

Business leaders

By partnering with regional and national businesses, we drive innovation and economic growth. From research commercialization to workforce development, these collaborations help position the University as a hub for forward-thinking solutions.

Explore our work

Dive deeper into the work of the Office of Government and Community Relations. Explore key areas where we drive change and foster collaboration.