Center for Community Engaged Learning
Kean University established the Center for Community-Engaged Learning to institutionalize community engagement as a core academic, research, and service mission of the university. This strategic plan outlines the phased development of the Center and provides a roadmap for achieving the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement in the 2029 cycle.
Overview
The Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) at Kean University is committed to enriching student learning beyond the classroom by fostering meaningful engagement with the larger community, primarily executed through academic courses led by faculty and staff in collaboration with community organizations, nonprofits, and local businesses. The Center seeks to empower students, faculty, and community partners to collaborate in creating transformative learning experiences and advancing scholarship that addresses real-world challenges.
Advancing Our Mission as an Anchor Institution
Kean University is committed to serving as an anchor institution in New Jersey and beyond. By formalizing CCEL, Kean will strengthen its role as a driver of educational access, civic learning, and community partnership. CCEL will:
- Support Kean’s public mission of access and equity through reciprocal partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and municipalities.
- Advance Kean’s role in regional economic and workforce development, consistent with anchor institution commitments.
- Enhance student learning by integrating civic and community engagement across curricula, co-curricula, and research.
- Provide faculty with infrastructure and recognition for community-engaged scholarship.
- Elevate Kean’s visibility nationally through its membership in CUMU (Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities) and peer networks.
Our Community Projects
Kean’s 18th Annual Human Rights Conference Inspires Action on Sustainability
Kean Students Explore Civic Engagement Beyond the Classroom
Support CEL
In partnership with campus and community, we advance community engaged learning at Kean University and prepare students for lifelong civic and social responsibility.
