High-quality work-based learning experiences depend on strong, intentional relationships between faculty and external partners. These may included businesses, nonprofits, government agenices, healthcare systems, schools, or community-based organizations. 

Faculty are not expected to build or manage employer or community relationships alone. At JMU, the University Career Center (UCC), along with the Professional Development Industry Liaisons and Internship Coordinators embedded in many of our schools and colleges, maintain active relationships with employers across industries and fields and can support faculty in identifying potential partners, aligning project scopes, and coordinating logistics.

For nonprofit and community-based collaborations, the Community Engagement and Volunteer Center (CEVC) is a key resource for outreach, partnership cultivation, and ensuring reciprocal benefit. Faculty are encouraged to consult these offices when exploring WBLE opportunities. These offices serve as thought partners, matchmakers, and ongoing relationship stewards. 

Principles for Effective Collaboration

Prioritize alignment, but don't expect full agreement

Successful partnerships don't require identical goals. What matters most is transparency about each party's objectives, constraints, and expected return on investment. Alignment may mean complementary–not identical–outcomes.

Articulate goals early

Before the project starts, discuss what success looks like for both the course and the partner. What will students learn? What value will the partner gain? This helps prevent mismatched expectations.

Define roles, responsibilities, and timelines

Be clear about who is doing what and when. Establish communication expectations, such as check-ins and feedback cycles, and identify key points of contact for the faculty, students, and partner organizations. 

Protect learning and equity

Ensure students are doing work that is relevant to their academic growth–not just unpaid labor. Consider whether time, transportation, or technology needs may create access barriers for students. Work to mitigate those barriers in your design process.

Strategies to Strengthen Alignment

Build trust and transparency

Invest in the relationship, not just the deliverables. Be honest about limitations, communicate openly, and assume positive intent.

Involve intermediaries when appropriate

Organizations such as workforce development boards, economic development groups, or regional coalitions, including V-TOP Valley Internship Experience Work Group (VIEW) and the Office of Economic and Community Development (located in the Ice House) can help match faculty with partners, align goals, and provide accountability. 

Create structured agreements

While not always required, an MOU or short project plan can help clarify expectations and reduce misunderstandings. Include goals, deliverables, timelines, and any necessary protocols. Templates for these are available from the University Career Center.