Understanding Intra-Governance Structures for Academic Legacy: The Case of a University–Sport Event Partnership
Abstract
Using social network analysis this study investigated the legacy of a partnership formed between a Canadian university and a multi-sport national event. The research questions that guided this work were: (1) What are the intra-university collaborative ties among individuals involved in the partnership? and (2) What types of legacies are associated with this higher education institution (HEI) partnership? Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from faculty, staff, and senior administrators who participated in committees designed to achieve academic and operational objectives. Quantitative data were analyzed using UCINET 6.0, which provided insights into the collaborative ties that were formed. Qualitative data obtained through interviews were coded and analyzed to determine participants’ perceptions about these collaborations and resulting legacies. Findings indicated a dispersed pattern of ties linked to the newly formed governance structure contributed to the development of new ties, enhanced professional awareness, and increased institutional knowledge for study participants. A key legacy was an intra-governance structure that facilitated the formation of new collaborations and ensured the sport event partnership served the academic mission of the university.
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Published
2026-10-13
Keywords
intra-university, partnership, higher education, sport management, social network analysis, collaboration
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Copyright (c) 2026 Julie Stevens, Kelly A Pilato, Martha Barnes, Anna Lathrop
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