Seattle University Youth Initiative
The Seattle University Youth Initiative (SUYI) unites the university and our local community. Launched in 2011, SUYI unites the university with the City of Seattle, the Seattle Housing Authority, Seattle Public Schools, dozens of community-based organizations, and hundreds of residents to create a “cradle to career” pathway of support for children and their families living in a two-square mile neighborhood adjacent to campus.
Three Pillars of SUYI
Successful Children and Youth
Through campus and community partnerships, SUYI provides youth and families a pathway of support for youth to succeed in school and pursue their college and career goals. When families are engaged in their child’s school experiences, children often show improved performance in all grade levels regardless of a family’s background or socioeconomic status.
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Engaged Campus
SUYI provides the Seattle University community — students, faculty, staff and alumni alike — with opportunities to lead a just and humane world. Through community engaged learning (CEL) opportunities, Seattle U students are introduced to the world around them, working in partnership and walking beside the community who are our neighbors. The process that makes CEL possible is also transformative for Seattle U faculty and staff.
Thriving Communities
Seattle University is nestled in the midst of historic and dynamic neighborhoods, each of which has tremendous leaders who make Seattle a wonderful place to live, learn and serve. SUYI's holistic approach includes partnering with community-based organizations and community leaders to support stable and affordable housing, access to health care, safe neighborhoods and living-wage jobs.
Since the inception of the Youth Initiative, Seattle University has pursued a collective impact strategy with dozens of community partners that is leading to positive results:
- Advocating for early learning
- Expanding after school and summer learning
- Supporting classroom learning
- Mobilizing mentors
- Fostering family/caretaker engagement
- Strengthening access to higher education