UNF earns 3rd consecutive Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement

The University of North Florida has once again been recognized for its sustained commitment to community partnership, earning the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement for the third time. UNF is among only 277 schools nationwide to earn this prestigious distinction, awarded by the American Council of Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

"This recognition honors UNF's strong ties to the Northeast Florida community and impact on enriching lives and fueling the state's economic prosperity," said UNF President Moez Limayem. "It is also aligned with the UNF Strategic Plan goals of enhancing community engagement and expanding community partnerships."

The recognition reflects years of intentional work throughout UNF to integrate community engagement into teaching, learning, research and service in ways that are mutually beneficial for both the University and its partners. It demonstrates a deep and ongoing commitment to connecting learning, research and service with the needs and strengths of the greater Jacksonville region and beyond.

"It is a tremendous accomplishment for UNF to earn this recognition for a third time," said Justin Sipes, director of UNF's Office of Experiential Learning. "It is a testament to the commitment of the University in consistently striving to engage with the community in ways that are mutually beneficial. This distinguishes UNF as a national leader in community engagement and an exemplar for other institutions to emulate."

Over the past several years, UNF has woven community engagement into every aspect of university life-across academic programs, student experiences and partnerships with local organizations, businesses and schools. Through hands-on learning, internships, research projects and service initiatives, students and faculty work side-by-side with community partners to address real-world challenges, support economic growth and improve quality of life.

The University has established new offices and leadership roles dedicated to expanding these efforts, created innovative programs, including UNF MedNexus, Florida Data Science for Social Good, the Taylor Leadership Institute and Meals on Wings, and made community engagement a core part of its strategic plan and brand identity. As a result, thousands of students each year participate in meaningful experiences that prepare them for successful careers and active citizenship, while making a positive and lasting impact on Northeast Florida and the communities UNF serves.

The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is awarded following an extensive self-study process in which institutions document and evaluate how community engagement is woven throughout their campus culture, including curricula, faculty scholarship, student experiences and institutional leadership. The process involves sharing specific examples of academic-community partnerships, co-curricular programs and faculty and student scholarship, as well as describing how engagement is measured, recognized and rewarded.

UNF previously earned the classification in 2010 and again in 2020. Each designation acknowledges the University's sustained efforts to strengthen teaching and learning through community-based projects while addressing real-world challenges alongside local, regional and global partners.

To learn more about the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification and the full list of recognized institutions, visit the Carnegie Foundation's website.