Montclair State University has recently earned the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement (CE) Classification. This honor, given by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, recognizes universities committed to community collaboration.
This year’s classification has been awarded to 230 schools, totaling 277 institutions across the country. Montclair’s President, Jonathan Koppell, expressed pride in this recognition, highlighting the university’s focus on socially vital goals. He noted that Montclair is one of only four federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institutions that also hold this prominent classification, underscoring its role as a public-serving university.
Montclair’s Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships, founded in 2023, manages various initiatives aimed at serving the local community. Programs like Community Action Nexus and community-engaged research are part of this effort. The university works on multiple projects, from local neighborhood improvement in Paterson to preserving historical sites, like The Charles J. Muth Museum of Hinchliffe Stadium.
Krystal Woolston, the Director of Public Service Programs, pointed out that the Carnegie classification showcases countless positive projects happening at Montclair. She believes these initiatives reflect a strong commitment to public education.
Students can participate in various community engagement programs. These include:
- The Bonner Leader Program: Fosters commitment to service throughout college.
- NextGen Service Corps: Prepares students for public service careers by understanding complex issues.
- Community-Engaged Learning: Connects academic studies with real-world community experiences.
- Leadership Development Through Civic Engagement: An undergraduate minor that teaches students to lead and engage in their communities.
Faculty can also join the Community-Engaged Teaching and Learning (CETL) Fellows program, which focuses on enhancing community engagement in teaching and research.
This recognition not only honors Montclair’s efforts but also affirms the university’s dedication to creating opportunities for lasting impacts in the community. As a vital part of its mission, Montclair State University continues to foster collaborations that benefit both students and the wider community.
If you’re interested in getting involved, check out the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships.
