Apr 25, 2024  
2023-2024 General Catalog 
    
2023-2024 General Catalog ARCHIVED CATALOG: To search archives, MUST use search box to left. Current catalog: catalog.usu.edu.

Community-Engaged Scholars Program


Community-Engaged Scholars Program

The Community-Engaged Scholars Program provides a much-needed and desired academic component complementing the extensive public service efforts of many USU students. It supports broader state and national movements promoting more civic engagement among college and university students. It also supports USU’s undergraduate educational mission, which is to prepare citizen scholars ”…who participate and lead in local, regional, national, and global communities.”

Community-Engaged Learning is a well-researched and highly effective teaching pedagogy, which incorporates community engagement into the course curriculum. Community-Engaged Scholars is a credit-bearing educational experience where students: (1) gain a broader understanding of course content, (2) earn a deeper appreciation of the discipline, (3) help meet community needs, (4) reflect on community engagement experiences, and (5) develop an enhanced sense of civic responsibility. Many opportunities for community-engaged learning are available for USU students. For a current list of CEL-designated courses, contact the Community-Engaged Learning Coordinator.

Transcript Notation

Upon successful completion of the program, a special notation will be recorded on a student’s transcript. This notation enables employees and graduate programs to see evidence of a student’s determination to go the extra mile. As Community-Engaged Scholars, students will also be recognized at graduation with a banquet in their honor, a stole to wear during commencement, a program certificate, and their name in the graduation program.

Next Steps

To learn more about admission, program requirements, and to apply, please visit the Community-Engaged Scholars program website. Questions can be directed to the Community-Engaged Learning Program Coordinator.

Excellence in Community Engagement Distinction

The Excellence in Community Engagement distinction recognizes USU graduates who demonstrate commitment to community engagement inside and outside the classroom.

Requirements:

  • 150+ hours of voluntary direct service, civic engagement, or community research during your college career (documented in AggiePulse prior to applying for distinction)
  •  2 Community-Engaged Learning (CEL) courses*
  •  Reflection essay (500 words)

Program registration must be completed through the form below by the following semester deadlines:

  • Summer semester completion: July 15
  • Fall semester completion: October 15
  • Spring semester completion: March 15

Recognition:

  • Community-Engaged Scholar transcript designation
  • Honor cord to be worn at graduation
  • Recognition in the graduation commencement program
  • Recognition at annual Community Engagement Awards

Next Steps

To apply, students should visit the Excellence and Community Engagement website and direct questions to the Community-Engaged Learning Program Coordinator.