The Lower Mississippi Delta Nutrition Intervention Research Initiative (Delta NIRI) is an academic–community partnership between seven academic institutions and three communities in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. This paper explores research conducted on the experience of academics in a federally funded CBPR sustainable nutrition intervention. Focus groups were conducted to gather the academic perspective on their experience devising research plans, implementing programs, and evaluating outcomes. The study found that the majority of faculty and staff members were interested in this project because it was an “egalitarian and potentially more successful type of research” (Downey, 744). This paper provides a detailed account of the engaged scholars’ perspective, citing perceived barriers and successful strategies.

Downey, L.H., Castellanos, D. C., Yadrick, K., Avis-Williams, A., Graham-Kresge, S., & Bogle, M. (2011). Perceptions of community-based participatory research in the Delta Nutrition Intervention Research Initiative: An Academic Perspective. Heath Promotion Practice, 12(5), 744-752. Full Text.