BRISTOL – The Community Partnerships Center at Roger Williams University began the spring 2013 semester with 14 projects under way, as part of the university’s partnership with the R.I. Economic Development Corporation announced last October.

The projects, which represent half of the center’s 28 total projects this semester, will focus on business support and community revitalization efforts in Central Falls, Providence and Woonsocket.

“This semester, some 250 students will integrate their coursework with technical, hands-on community collaborations that will help solve critical issues facing our local neighborhoods. Each of our projects draws upon the diverse expertise of the university’s faculty and programs while empowering students to gain valuable experience and job-ready skills that will prepare them for successful careers,” said center director Arnold Robinson in a statement.

There will be six projects conducted in Providence and eight in Woonsocket. Students and faculty also will be working on collaborations with several local organizations on other projects throughout the state.

The Community Partnerships Center at the university pairs students and faculty with local nonprofits, municipalities and other organizations to work on community projects that require specialized expertise or additional resources. •