Universities have challenging times ahead: the demands of a global student, new technology, employers wanting work-ready graduates and shifting ideologies that influence who holds and creates knowledge. The role of a university as a civic institution becomes increasingly contested. How can and should universities engage with communities to create lasting social impact?This collection offers global perspectives on community–university engagement, highlighting innovative approaches to co-production, participatory research and collaboration with stakeholders beyond academia. The book explores the challenges and successes of partnership working, demystifying the university’s role beyond teaching, positioning it as an anchor institution that can drive social change.