The Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement: An Oral History of its Foundations, Achievements, Challenges and Future Aspirations

For two decades, the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement has been widely seen as a prestigious indicator of rigorous, significant and ongoing institutional commitment to embed community engagement within teaching and learning, research and outreach. This is the case for many colleges and universities in the USA and in other countries. At the same time, community engagement as a core institutional feature is under considerable pressure, with the extent of its authentic and sustainable institutionalisation debated. This article offers an oral history of the founding, development and evolution of the CE Classification for Community Engagement according to six individuals who have been deeply involved since its beginning in the USA. Their reflections shed light on its context, processes, aspirations and achievements, highlighting both what has been achieved and what remains ongoing. These lively, rich contributions are not merely an archive of a time past. Rather, they invite critical reflection and ongoing affirmation of the commitment to mutually beneficial, reciprocal and change-­ oriented partnerships.