SMU earns 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement

SMU was awarded the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a prestigious national designation recognizing commitment to community partnerships, civic engagement and measurable public impact.

The classification, awarded by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, evaluates how institutions align mission, culture, leadership, resources and practices with community engagement. Only institutions that demonstrate deep, mutually beneficial and sustained partnerships with their communities receive it.

“This recognition affirms that community engagement is fundamental to SMU’s mission,” President Jay Hartzell said. “Our faculty, students and staff work alongside partners in Dallas and beyond to address real-world challenges through teaching, research and service. The Carnegie classification reflects the power of those relationships and our shared commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact.”

Committed partnerships with Dallas

Serving Dallas and the greater community prepares SMU students to become purpose-driven leaders who can address complex challenges. Community engagement spans academic programs, research initiatives and service efforts that connect classroom learning and scholarship with real-world needs, including:

• Partnerships with Dallas businesses, entrepreneurs and industry leaders that provide students with internships, applied research opportunities and real-world problem-solving experiences.
• Experiential learning and service initiatives through Engage Dallas, SMU’s community engagement framework, that connect students, faculty and staff with long-term community partners to address local needs.
• Community-engaged research that addresses Dallas priorities, including education equity, public health, housing stability and workforce development.
• Legal clinics and pro bono programs that serve Dallas residents while training students through hands-on work in civil rights, family law, immigration, and more.

“Our students cultivate principled leadership through purpose-driven work, reflection and partnership,” said Rachel Davis Mersey, executive vice president and provost. “These experiences are essential to preparing well-rounded graduates who are ready to serve and lead across professions and communities.”