The University of Dayton is once again recognized as a national leader in service and partnership with the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification.
This distinction is widely considered the highest standard for U.S. colleges and universities committed to public service and civic missions, held by 277 institutions nationwide.
“This recognizes our classrooms extend beyond campus, offering students opportunities to learn by working directly with neighbors and nonprofits to solve urgent challenges,” said Nancy McHugh, executive director of the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community.
Students bring this mission to life through hands-on programs. Among them, the Health Engagement Fellows program offers paid internships and mentoring; the Urban Teacher Academy prepares future educators for the unique needs of urban schools and families; ETHOS pairs engineers with community partners to build technology that solves problems and helps people; and more.
In renewing the designation, originally awarded in 2015, reviewers praised UD for aligning leadership and resources to support the common good. They noted the University's strength in deepening community partnerships to address real societal issues.
The classification is valid through 2032.