Seven University System of Maryland Institutions Recognized with 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement

Designation places USM institutions among a select group of only 157 public universities nationwide

BALTIMORE (January 12, 2026) — The University System of Maryland (USM) today announced that seven of its institutions have received the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, the nation’s leading framework for assessing and recognizing an institution’s commitment to community engagement in U.S. higher education.
The following USM institutions received the designation in the 2026 classification cycle:
  • Salisbury University
  • Towson University
  • University of Baltimore
  • University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB)
  • University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
  • University of Maryland, College Park
  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
The Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement is administered by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and managed by the American Council on Education. Since 2006, it has recognized colleges and universities that demonstrate an ongoing, institution-wide commitment to community engagement, characterized by reciprocal partnerships and measurable public impact.

In the 2026 cycle, only 157 public institutions nationwide were recognized with the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, underscoring the selectivity and national significance of this designation for public higher education.

According to the Carnegie Foundation, community engagement is a collaboration between higher education institutions and their larger communities, which enriches research and scholarship, addresses critical societal challenges and prepares students for civic participation and democratic life.

“This hard-won designation validates the University System’s deep commitment to civic education and community engagement, foundational to our mission,” said USM Chancellor Jay A. Perman. “Our universities do more than educate students for career success; they educate them for civic leadership. Our universities engage their communities as partners in their work and prepare their graduates to contribute meaningfully to our American democracy.”

“At a time when the public role of higher education is under renewed scrutiny, this recognition highlights how USM institutions are fulfilling their civic responsibility,” said Alison Wrynn, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs. “Community engagement strengthens student learning, advances scholarship and builds the partnerships necessary for thriving communities.”

The University System of Maryland is nationally recognized for its leadership in public higher education, equity, and innovation. With seven institutions holding the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, USM stands among a limited group of public university systems demonstrating sustained excellence in civic and community engagement.

Additional information, including a full list of institutions that hold this classification endorsement, can be found here.

Contact: Beau Boughamer
Email: bboughamer@usmd.edu