Carnegie honors 7 State University System schools for outstanding community service

Seven Florida public universities are earning recognition for outreach to their respective communities in the state.

The State University System (SUS) of Florida announced that the Carnegie Foundation awarded the schools with the 2026 Community Engagement Classification. The award, which is designated by the American Council on Education and Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, highlights colleges and universities that are involved in the community.

The Sunshine State schools receiving the recognition include Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, Florida State University, the University of Florida, the University of North Florida and the University of South Florida. Of the 12 state universities in Florida, the University of Central Florida and the University of West Florida also obtained the honor in 2024.

“Florida’s public higher education system leads the nation because our focus extends past handing out degrees; our institutions care about their impact on their communities, statewide, and beyond,” said SUS Board of Governors Chair Alan Levine.

“From nursing to engineering to aerospace technology, our academic programs are serving students and Floridians through innovative research and experiential learning that solve today’s challenges and prepare tomorrow’s leaders.”

Carnegie officials note that 230 U.S. higher-education institutions were selected for the award.

“The Community Engagement Classification is awarded following a process of self-study by each institution. The classification has been the leading framework for institutional assessment and recognition of community engagement in U.S. higher education for the past 19 years with classification cycles in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2015, 2020, 2024, and now 2026. The 2029 cycle will be for first-time applicants,” a Carnegie news release said.

SUS officials say the schools never shied away from giving back to residents.

“Under the System’s strategic plan, universities prioritize engaging stakeholders in their communities to elevate student and economic outcomes, and to cultivate prepared and engaged citizens,” said SUS Chancellor Ray Rodrigues.

“Recognition through the Community Engagement Classification demonstrates this plan in action, proving that our universities are a comprehensive resource for communities and businesses across the state and serve Floridians in the ways that matter most.”