Carnegie Foundation

What is the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification?

The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is the Foundation’s only elective classification, meaning that it requires a voluntary application process by institutions. It is supplemental to the Foundation’s main category. Initial classifications were awarded in 2010 and applicants were considered for renewal or new classification in 2015. The next cycle is in 2020, with applications due in April 2019. The classification is for a 10-year period. 361 institutions have Carnegie Community Engagement classification.

This classification is not simply an “award.” It requires evidence-based documentation of institutional practice to be used in a process of self-assessment and constant quality improvement for community engagement. The documentation is reviewed by the Foundation to determine whether the institution qualifies for recognition as a community engaged institution.

How does the Carnegie Foundation define Community Engagement?

“Community engagement describes collaboration between institutions of higher education and their larger communities (local, regional/state, national, global) for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity.

The purpose of community engagement is the partnership of college and university knowledge and resources with those of the public and private sectors to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical