Carnegie Elective Classification - FAQ

Check here for frequently asked questions regarding YSU and the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement

 

The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching was established in 1905 and chartered in 1906 by an act of Congress. The Foundation serves as a national authority that classified institutions of higher education based on size, academic program mix, and degree award level focus. In addition, the Foundation sponsors Elective Classifications for institutions that have made extraordinary commitments to their public purpose. 

YSU has adopted the Carnegie Foundation definition for 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 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 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 societal issues; and contribute to the public good. 

Community partners gain access to the university's resources, expertise, and student talent to address community needs. Community benefits by having a prepared workforce as students graduate with deeper knowledge and established connections. 

The experiential learning environment fosters student engagement in real-world projects as they learn from the expertise of community partners and faculty resulting in differentiating experiences that lead to competitive graduate school placement and employment opportunities. Faculty relationships with partners lead to meaningful learning experiences for students while gaining opportunities for community-engaged applications for their teaching, research & creative activities, and service. 

The classification is valid until 2032, at which time the institution will seek reclassification to retain it's status.

YSU has a community-engaged learning (CEL) designation for courses that provide opportunities for students to engage in the community.

YSU PenguinPulse is the university's community engagement platform. All students, faculty, staff, and community partners use this online space to promote, find, sign up, and track volunteer activities and community-engaged learning opportunities.