Purpose
The Center for Civic Engagement's purpose is to bring clarity of vision and shared purpose to Illinois State University’s efforts in the area of civic engagement — one of our core values.
The scope for the Center for Civic Engagement is broad and includes in-class and out-of-class learning and experiences that partner with the local community as well as the global community. Although the center is not the sole provider of campus civic engagement initiatives, it supports existing programs and serves as a catalyst to create, coordinate and expand future programming.
-
Civic Engagement
Civic engagement at Illinois State University prepares students to be informed and engaged global citizens; ethical leaders who will craft, promote, and further positive goals for the betterment of society. The University promotes active learning experiences, through which students will gain an awareness and understanding of civic engagement as a lifelong responsibility.
Learn more about civic engagement and Illinois State's other core values -
Service Learning
“Service-learning is a form of experimental education in which students engage in activities that address human and community needs, together with structured opportunities for reflection designed to achieve desired learning outcomes” (Jacoby, 1996). Service learning is based upon the fundamental pursuit for balance between student learning and community benefit.
-
Civic Education
Civic engagement is an integral part of the teaching practice at Illinois State University. Students are offered a variety of opportunities to incorporate civic engagement in their curriculum.
These academic programs are sustainable anchors of service learning at Illinois State University: