WSU recognized for community engagement efforts by Carnegie Foundation

Washington State University's community engagement efforts across the state are nationally recognized by the organizations that set the standard for U.S. universities.

The university's status as a Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement Campus was renewed on Jan. 12 by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. WSU is one of only 277 institutions recognized by the national organizations and first earned the illustrious distinction in 2008.

"For more than 130 years, Washington State University has upheld its land-grant mission to enrich the lives of our students and communities across our state," said WSU President Betsy Cantwell. "We take the service aspect of this mission seriously and will continue to seek new and exciting ways to support Washington both now and in the years ahead."

WSU is one of only 277 institutions recognized by the national organizations and first earned the illustrious distinction in 2008.

This recognition comes during a turbulent time for higher education.

"Applications in this cycle demonstrated how campuses nationwide are deepening partnerships, leveraging community assets, and addressing urgent societal challenges - work your institution has advanced with clarity and distinction," per a letter from the Carnegie Electives team. "There is much to celebrate, and it is heartening to witness such a strong and growing commitment to community engagement across the sector."

In its application for recertification, WSU officials highlighted many advancements in the university's efforts to engage with communities in Washington. Among these was the launch of GivePulse, an online tool that enables the Center for Civic Engagement to better manage volunteering opportunities and CCE's new Community-Engaged Scholars program. Other examples from every campus and many programs including Extension and the university's community-based medical program contributed to this coveted recognition.