Community Engagement and Research

Community Engagement and Research

ECU’s Office of Community Engagement and Research enhances the university’s relationships with communities and improves its quality of public service. Community engagement describes collaboration between institutions of higher education and their larger local, regional, state, national and global communities for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity. These partnerships enrich scholarship, research and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching and learning; prepare educated and engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good.

In 2008, ECU was recognized with the Carnegie Foundation’s Classification for Community Engagement. This elective classification – based on voluntary participation by individual institutions – involves data collection and documentation of important aspects of ECU’s mission, identity and commitments. ECU earned reclassification in 2014 and will have the opportunity to reclassify again in 2025. For more information on the Carnegie Foundation’s Classification for Community Engagement, visit the classification’s website.

As recognition for its faculty member’s service through community engaged research projects, the university presents the Scholarship of Engagement Award annually. The award recognizes achievement in scholarship of engagement and sustained commitment to partnered scholarly endeavors with communities. Additionally, faculty have the opportunity to participate in the Engagement and Outreach Scholars Academy. The academy provides professional development and project support for community engagement.

For more information about engaged research opportunities at ECU, contact Sharon Paynter, assistant vice chancellor for community engagement and research.