As part of the strategic partnership with Arizona State University, UNI academic staff are part of the Communities of Practice initiative. Communities of Practice serve as dynamic platforms for academic staff at all of Arizona State University's partner universities to collaborate, generate new research ideas, and identify opportunities for improvement and implementation within their respective institutions. These communities foster interaction and engagement among members by enabling effective knowledge sharing and collective problem solving.

The primary goal of the Communities of Practice is to drive efficiency in new projects by facilitating the exchange of best practices. By leveraging the diverse expertise and experiences of community members, it aims to identify and promote successful strategies and approaches that can be adopted across institutions. Through this collaborative effort, the communities seek to optimize processes, streamline workflows, and enhance project outcomes.

By maintaining ongoing engagement and providing a platform for professional development, the communities foster a sense of belonging and facilitate the building of relationships among faculty and staff. This engagement and camaraderie contribute to a positive work environment, which in turn supports talent retention and satisfaction.