The Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement is a prestigious national recognition awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching to institutions of higher education that demonstrate a deep institutional commitment to community engagement. Unlike other Carnegie classifications based on data, this elective classification is voluntary and requires institutions to provide detailed evidence of how they embed community engagement into their mission, culture, and operations.

These classifications are not awards—they are based on rigorous, evidence-based documentation that reflects how community engagement is embedded in an institution’s mission, culture, and daily practices.

Institutions apply for a specific theme, such as Community Engagement, and must demonstrate commitment through:

• Strategic alignment with mission and values
• Robust curricular and co-curricular programming
• Ongoing assessment and continuous improvement
• Inclusive faculty, staff, and student engagement

Earning the Community Engagement Classification requires a significant institutional effort and provides national recognition for colleges and universities that prioritize partnerships for the public good. The classification is open to U.S. campuses and offered every two years.

Carnegie Steering Committee Coming Soon.