The Arc Mercer Engages in Innovation-Focused Dialogue at Princeton University’s Fall 2025 Partnership Gathering

The Arc Mercer was pleased to attend Princeton University’s inaugural Fall 2025 Partnership Dialogues, a new gathering designed to strengthen collaboration between community organizations, faculty, and students.

Hosted by the Office of Community and Regional Affairs, the Pace Center for Civic Engagement, and the Program for Community-Engaged Scholarship (ProCES), the event brought together leaders committed to developing innovative approaches to health and community well-being.

This year’s program centered on how technology can help address pressing health challenges. The panel discussion, moderated by Professor Heather Howard, featured experts from Princeton Precision Health, the Camden Dream Center, Astrid Athletics, and the Trenton Health Team. 

The conversation highlighted the importance of community partnerships in creating effective, equitable solutions.

For the Arc Mercer, the gathering presented a valuable opportunity to begin building a deeper relationship with Princeton University. As the agency continues to enhance its day programming, Princeton’s academic resources, student engagement opportunities, and growing interest in community-based innovation offer strong potential for collaboration.

The Arc Mercer is exploring simple, high-impact ways to partner with the University, including:

• Bringing Princeton students into the day program for volunteer projects, skill-building workshops, or enrichment activities

• Working with faculty or student research teams to pilot small technology-based solutions that support learning, communication, or wellness

• Participating in future community-engaged initiatives that connect university expertise with local needs

These early conversations reflect a shared goal: creating opportunities that benefit both the individuals the Arc Mercer supports and the students and faculty eager to contribute to meaningful community impact.

The Arc Mercer looks forward to continuing dialogue with Princeton University as both organizations explore practical, forward-thinking ways to strengthen services, expand opportunities, and support a healthier, more inclusive region.