Abstract
This study was performed to document the strategies and methods used by successful applicants for the 2010 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification and to document the cultural shifts connected with the application process and receipt of the Classification. Four major findings emerged: (1) Applicants benefited from a team approach; (2) Evidence of community engagement often already exists within an institution, but additional data will likely need to be gathered; (3) Successful applicants encountered obstacles or challenges related to data collection structures and resources, institution-wide understanding and involvement, and matching data to the application itself; and (4) Both performing the application process and receiving the Classification yielded institutional and cultural shifts: new or improved collaborations, greater institutionalization of community engagement, new or improved data-reporting structures, and better alignment of the institution's mission with the goals of community engagement. This article also offers respondents' recommendations to future Classification applicants.