JMU wins civic learning and community engagement award

James Madison University has been named a winner of this year’s Excellence and Innovation Awards presented by The American Association of State Colleges and Universities. Now in its fourth year, the program honors AASCU member institutions for excellence and innovation in major areas of campus life and leadership: teacher education; civic learning and community engagement; international education; leadership development and diversity; regional and economic development; student success and college completion; and sustainability and sustainable development.  

“Innovation at America’s state colleges and universities is focused on advancing the quality of the educational experience for their students and the distinction of their institutions in service to their communities,” said AASCU President Muriel A. Howard. “The programs for which these universities are being honored will inspire not only their AASCU colleagues but all of higher education.”

JMU was recognized for its comprehensive approach to civic learning and community engagement, which includes an award-winning service-learning program; student-centered, innovative teaching; and expanded commitment to civic engagement. Due to these efforts, JMU President Jonathan Alger was named to the board of Campus Compact, and JMU was designated as a “Voter Friendly Campus.”

The winning entries required evidence of top-level administrative support; connection with an institution’s mission and strategic agenda; contribution to significant institutional improvements or programming; and grounding in research and best practices. Multiple awards were given in certain categories. The awards will be presented Oct. 22 at the opening session of AASCU’s annual meeting in La Jolla, California.

About The American Association of State Colleges and Universities
The American Association of State Colleges and Universities is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of more than 400 public colleges, universities and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise of Opportunities for All.