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Auburn University has again been recognized nationally for its commitment to community engagement, earning the prestigious 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. This elective designation, awarded by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, affirms Auburn’s continued dedication to meaningful partnerships that strengthen communities and enrich student learning.

Auburn is among 237 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the classification in the 2026 cycle, joining a total of 277 institutions nationwide that currently hold this distinction. The classification is considered the leading framework for assessing and recognizing community engagement in higher education.

“This recognition reflects Auburn’s land-grant mission and our unwavering commitment to serve the people of Alabama and beyond,” said Royrickers Cook, vice president for University Outreach. “Through collaborative partnerships, engaged scholarship and outreach initiatives, Auburn continues to make a positive impact on communities while providing transformative learning experiences for our students.”

The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is awarded following a rigorous self-study and evidence-based documentation process. Institutions demonstrate how they integrate community engagement into teaching, research and service to address societal challenges and advance the public good.

Since its inception in 2006, the classification has become a benchmark for excellence in civic engagement and institutional accountability. Auburn first earned the designation in 2010 and renewed in 2020. Its reclassification in 2026 underscores the university’s sustained leadership in outreach and engagement.

“I am deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment and hard work of our outstanding faculty, staff, and students and particularly to the team that worked with me to prepare this application. Together with our community partners, we create lasting, positive change for Alabama and beyond,” said Hollie Cost, assistant vice president for University Outreach and Public Service.

For more information about the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification and the full list of designated institutions, visit the institute's website.