Central affirms commitment to communities with Carnegie reclassification

Central Connecticut State University has been awarded renewal for the prestigious 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a national designation that underscores Central’s sustained commitment to meaningful partnerships that serve the public good. The designation is issued by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in partnership with the American Council on Education.

Central is one of just 277 institutions nationwide to receive this elective classification, which entails a rigorous application process and the submission of extensive, evidence-based documentation demonstrating institutional commitment and impact. The classification is valid through 2032, at which time the university will seek reclassification.

“This recognition speaks to who we are at Central and how we show up for our communities,” said Dr. Zulma R. Toro, president of Central Connecticut State University. “Community engagement is not an initiative at Central—it is a responsibility we embrace and strive to put into practice every day. This approach enrichens our students’ educational experience, and it is what sets Central apart from its peer institutions.”

The Carnegie Foundation defines community engagement as collaboration between institutions of higher education and their broader communities—local, regional, national, and global—for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources. This work strengthens scholarship and research, enriches teaching and learning, prepares engaged citizens, reinforces democratic values, addresses critical societal challenges, and contributes to the public good.

At Central, community engagement spans collaborative research, service-learning, workforce development, civic initiatives, and long-standing partnerships with schools, nonprofits, municipalities, and industries.

“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,” said Cammie Jones-Friedrichs, director of the Carnegie Elective for Community Engagement. “There is much to celebrate, and it is heartening to witness such a strong and growing commitment to community engagement across the sector.”

Jones noted that Central’s application documented “excellent alignment among campus mission, culture, leadership, resources, and practices that support dynamic and noteworthy community engagement.”