Connecting with the Community
Illuminating the university's importance through relationships, events and outreach
Connecting Campus and Community
External Relations and Constituent Engagement (ERCE) serves as the social-capital engine for the university.
UMKC is an integral part of the greater Kansas City region. We are the largest, fully-accredited university and Kansas City’s only public research institution. But our reach goes far beyond the classroom or laboratory.
Our division's relationships with campus stakeholders celebrate and demonstrate the spirit of UMKC to build advocacy and support for the campus and the broader community. Through our active presence and engagement efforts, we make connections with UMKC experiential, enduring and extraordinary.
We operate a variety of outreach facilities, plan commencement and numerous signature events, engage more than 60 constituent groups. We also participate in educational programs spanning from birth through retirement and work closely with our local and state governments as part of the University of Missouri System.
We can help you discover how you can be part of it all.
By the Numbers
60+
Constituent groups engaged
51,000+
People who attend events
$62.5m
Government funds secured
“Our university partners in the Kansas City region are vital to fueling our region’s growth, workforce talent, and investment.”
Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City
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Engagement
Find your passion. Discover opportunities to mentor, volunteer, advocate and learn with us here on campus. Whether you are an alum, community leader or new to UMKC, there is something for everyone.
Engage with us
Government relations
Our office connects our elected officials to the university through events, communications and outreach. Learn about our role in making sure our local and state governments know the value UMKC adds to our community.
Contact government personnel
Signature events and conference services
We create, plan and host a variety of events throughout the year. Whether you are planning a meeting for five or a special celebration for more than a hundred guests, UMKC has the spaces and staff to help make your event successful.
Signature events
Conference services
Featured Event - Crescendo
We go all out to celebrate the artists shaping the future of the performing arts at UMKC. We love showing off our Conservatory dancers, actors and musicians! Join us for Crescendo, an immersive benefit gala for the UMKC Conservatory on November 14 at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
UMKC Community Entrepreneurship Program Expands Opportunities for Kansas City Business Owners
22 Jul 2026 | Community-focused entrepreneurship initiative aims to expand opportunity, mentorship and upward mobility for Kansas Citians Read full story UMKC Community Entrepreneurship Program Expands Opportunities for Kansas City Business Owners
UMKC-Led Critical Materials Crossroads Engine Selected for $160 Million NSF Award
14 Jul 2026 | Historic investment positions the Greater Kansas City region to strengthen America’s supply chains, advanced manufacturing and national security Read full story UMKC-Led Critical Materials Crossroads Engine Selected for $160 Million NSF Award
UMKC Alum Donates $575,000 to First-Generation Law Students and Athletics
1 Jul 2026 | Determination and three phone calls changed Sherri Wattenbarger’s life; now she pays it forward Read full story UMKC Alum Donates $575,000 to First-Generation Law Students and Athletics