This edited collection spotlights the leadership behind contemporary examples of place-based community engagement in higher education. Through compelling first-person narratives, leaders from diverse institutions provide an insider’s perspective on addressing complex issues such as educational inequity, public health disparities, housing insecurity, gentrification, and cultural preservation. Each chapter offers both inspiration and practical guidance, presenting promising practices and lessons learned while redefining the concept and development of place-based engagement. The book highlights the transformative power of these efforts, demonstrating how institutions can creatively address societal challenges, build stronger community relationships, and drive institutional change. A Co-Publication with Campus Compact. “Grounded, honest, and deeply resonant, this book brings together diverse examples and models that show how place-based engagement can reshape the relationship between campuses and the communities they call home. A valuable resource for leaders and practitioners seeking to strengthen communities, transform learning, and reimagine the role of institutions today.” Bobbie Laur , Campus Compact President “ Leading Place-Based Community Engagement Initiatives offers a strategic analysis, a blueprint, and a contemplative approach to not only the work of service and justice, but to true, mutually beneficial connection with and for the communities’ institutions of higher learning call home. At a time when colleges and universities are struggling to show their relevance and importance to a skeptical society, this text is an invaluable resource to educators seeking to drive missionary work and ministry to all. Yamamura and Koth excelled in the follow up to the first text, Place-Based Community Engagement in Higher Education .” Robert D. Kelly , President, University of Portland “ Leading Place-Based Community Engagement Initiatives reflects its focus―deeply rooted in place and focused on practice, the authors of each chapter share the specific history, methods and learning particular to their location and context. The result is a rich tapestry of stories and scholarship that not only reflect a diversity of places but also gives readers a wealth of approaches and lessons to draw from to deepen and inform their own efforts.” Neeraja Aravamudan , Director, Edward Ginsburg Center Director and Publisher, Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning , University of Michigan Kent Koth is the founding Executive Director of the Seattle University Sundborg Center for Community Engagement, USA. Erica K. Yamamura is Executive Director of LEAD California, USA, a statewide organization that advances college civic and community engagement for the public good.