ABSTRACT
Academic medical centers and university extension programs remain underdeveloped collaborators, despite the complementary objectives between translational science and extension. This case study details the creation of a nationally unique interprofessional organizational structure between the University of Missouri (MU) Office of Extension and Engagement (MU Extension) and the MU School of Medicine to accelerate statewide reach of research and education discoveries using high-touch community health approaches. This article describes specific strategies used to systematically plan for: 1) creation and operation of the new structure, 2) routinization and institutionalizing the work, and 3) sustainability. We further outline challenges and next steps. The development of the backbone organization office of Health Outreach Policy and Education (HOPE) brings together the interprofessional expertise of five units with a common agenda to advance mutually reinforcing activities. HOPE is poised to make significant contributions to amplify MU's land grant mission, garner additional grant funding, and advance the health of Missourians.
