The Center for Community Leadership Development (CCLD) was founded on July 1, 1967 as part
of the University of Wisconsin-Extension. CCLD was integrated into the University of
Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the early 1980s. Beldon Paulson served as CCLD chair from the early
1970s to the late 1980s. When first started, the CCLD's main goal was to help focus
resources from the University of Wisconsin System on improving the quality of life in urban
communities of Wisconsin, specifically the greater Milwaukee area. The CCLD served the
educational needs of low- and moderate-income people, racial/ethnic minorities, and
non-traditional students. It was a continuing education resource center for specialized
urban-related activities and future-oriented subject areas. The CCLD engaged in community
development education through developing human resources, and facilitating broad
participation in community problem-solving and prevention. CCLD educational programs
subdivide into four general topics: Energy Education, Equal Education Opportunity,
Neighborhood Community Development Education, and Futures Studies.
In 1974 CCLD changed its name to the Center for Urban Community Development. The CCLD had
evolved from specific project-oriented focus, to comprehensive community planning and
development; due to limited resources, they had no choice but to limit activity to the
Milwaukee Metropolitan area and a few statewide projects. The new name reflected and
emphasized the urban and the community development nature of their work.
The Center for Urban Community Development exists in 2013 as a part of the University of
Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Continuing Education. It focuses on providing educational
programs that promote personal, professional, and community leadership development. It
emphasizes capacity-building among central city populations.
