North Minnepolis

Welcome to UROC

Located in North Minneapolis, the Robert J. Jones Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC) links the University of Minnesota in vital public partnership with urban communities to advance learning, improve quality of life, and discover breakthrough solutions to critical problems. Since opening its doors in 2009, UROC has worked to build thriving, innovative, and respectful collaborations; create new models of urban-focused community engagement; and strengthen the University as a vital engaged 21st century university serving the public good.

Rules of Engagement
UROC Welcome
Community Day Artwork
Birth Justice Collaborative
Johneva McCoy
North Minneapolis Gardens for Change crew
Jessica Forrester
Danielle Brown
Roni Evans, Douglas Kennedy, Ronda Chakolis, and Sam Simmons
Ariel graphic
Fernando Burga
Zoom screenshot from banking and lending
Ayanna and her daughter in a pool
Voices of the Future: Linking Historical Trauma, Ambiguous Loss, and Financial Decision Making Among African American Families research team

News Highlights

Date: Apr 29 2025


UROC is pleased to announce Jen Afamefune as the new Communications Specialist. Jen is a North Minneapolis native and a graduate of the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, where she majored in Mass Communications and African/African American Studies.

Date: Apr 16 - 28 2025

Representative Ilhan Omar is hosting her annual Congressional Art Competition. The competition is open to students grades 9 through 12. An award ceremony in honor of the artists and their families will take place on Thursday, April 24th from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at UROC.

Date: Apr 29 2025 | 5:30 - 7:30pm

This Critical Conversation will convene a panel that will discuss the legal, social, and economic challenges that migrant and indigenous communities will confront and provide practical ways to offer mutual support and advocacy.