A harmonization framework developed for six Mayo Clinic Community Advisory Boards aligned their purpose, structure, and function to unify and amplify community voices in research.
Implementing a flexible harmonization framework across multiple institutional Community Advisory Boards can unify and amplify community voices in research while addressing unique local health needs.
Objectives/Goals: Community Advisory Boards (CABs) offer researchers community perspectives and empower CAB members to learn about research. The Mayo Clinic Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS) engages communities through six CABs. We describe our efforts over the past 17 years to develop, implement, align, and evaluate the six Mayo Clinic CCaTS CABs. Methods/Study Population: CABs were established in Jacksonville, FL (2008), Rochester, MN (2011), Phoenix, AZ (2014), Pediatrics, MN (2019), Native Tribal Health, MN (2021), Rural, Midwest (2022), and each operated independently. To harmonize CAB structure and function, a framework was developed in 2024 through an assessment of current CAB practices, guidelines, and feedback from CAB members. Through this process, a shared vision, mission, and strategy were created. The goal of harmonization was to align the six CABs with community health needs identified through local Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs). This information was consolidated into a new Guiding Document that outlines our unified approach to engaging the community in research through CABs. This harmonization framework provides both structure and flexibility. Results/Anticipated Results: As part of CAB harmonization framework, annual evaluations assess CAB impact, satisfaction, and growth opportunities. One CAB was evaluated in 2023, two in 2024, four in 2025, and all in 2026. CABs have four roles: Members, Board Chairs, Coordinators, and Scientific Leads. Each CAB has 15–20 members serving 3-year terms. CABs meet quarterly, with one in-person meeting annually. Meeting topics fall into four categories: site-based programs, planning, or evaluation; community-engaged research partnerships; research addressing an identified community health need; or a member selected topic that enhances information, education, or capacity building. Members receive orientation, annual training, and compensation. This framework supports community voices in research and aligns with local needs. Discussion/Significance of Impact: By aligning the purpose, structure, and function through a harmonization framework, we unified and amplified community voices in research. Few institutions support such a broad CAB network. With no existing model to meet our unique needs, we developed this flexible framework that fosters alignment while addressing each community’s unique needs.
Sabey et al. (2026) studied Community engagement in research. Harmonization framework for Community Advisory Boards was evaluated on Alignment of CAB purpose, structure, and function. A harmonization framework developed for six Mayo Clinic Community Advisory Boards aligned their purpose, structure, and function to unify and amplify community voices in research.