The University of Akron has applied to the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching to receive a Carnegie Engagement Classification of Curricular Engagement and Outreach and Partnerships, a distinction that brings recognition to the University's documentable excellence.
Additional information: |
The initiatives, projects, processes and policies detailed within the application are the natural extension and evolution of a philosophy of engagement, partnership and reciprocity that has existed between this University and its communities for more than a century, said University of Akron President Luis M. Proenza.
Rooted in community engagement
"Community engagement and reciprocity have been part of the fabric of this institution since its founding in 1870. This is not mere rhetoric, but a statement supported by objective facts," Proenza said. "In the last decade, we have broadened our collaborative initiatives to engage other institutions, industries and communities in our region in mutually beneficial partnerships. We have formalized and focused our internal processes and policies to emphasize and grow engagement strategies and practices. The historic symbiosis that arose 130 years ago from a pragmatic, Midwestern ethos of mutual support is today being directed, amplified and expanded through a systematic process for further development toward the ideals of community engagement."
Among the current major initiatives included as examples of UA community engagement were the University Park Alliance, the Medina County University Center, and the National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM Middle School. The application also detailed University processes for measuring, assessing, promoting and rewarding community engagement activity. The overall impression is of continual quality improvement in terms of engagement, outreach and partnerships.
First attempt
This is the first time the University has applied for the Carnegie Foundation engagement classification. Holly Harris Bane, associate vice president for strategic initiatives and engagement, and others in the Office of the Senior Vice President, Provost and Chief Operating Officer led the effort to complete and submit the application. A response from the Carnegie Foundation is expected before the end of the calendar year.
Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1905 and chartered in 1906 by an act of Congress, The Carnegie Foundation is an independent policy and research center with a primary mission "to do and perform all things necessary to encourage, uphold and dignify the profession of the teacher and the cause of higher education." The improvement of teaching and learning is central to all of the work of the Foundation.