Community Engagement Council (CEC)

The Community Engagement Council serves as an advisory body for Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, connecting the School with perspectives from community organizations, healthcare partners, public agencies, educators, and other regional stakeholders. The Council helps ensure that community engagement efforts remain responsive to the needs, strengths, and priorities of the communities we serve.

Through discussion, feedback, and collaboration, Council members help identify opportunities for partnership, provide insight on community needs, and offer perspectives that can inform student experiences, outreach initiatives, and the School of Medicine’s broader community engagement efforts.

Council Impact

The Council strengthens the connection between the School of Medicine and the community by creating a consistent space for community voices to be heard and considered. Its contributions help the School:

• Identify emerging health and community priorities across the region.
• Strengthen relationships with community organizations and regional partners.
• Inform community-responsive student engagement and outreach opportunities.
• Provide feedback that helps the School better understand community needs and assets.
• Create stronger pathways for collaboration between the School of Medicine and the communities it serves.

A Community-Informed Approach

The Council supports the School of Medicine’s commitment to listening, learning, and building sustainable relationships with the community. Rather than approaching engagement as a one-time activity, the Council helps create an ongoing feedback loop that can guide how the School develops partnerships and responds to community priorities over time.