Civic Engagement

What is Civic Engagement?

Civic engagement consists of students, faculty, and staff voluntarily engaging in opportunities to address a wide variety of social issues and support under-served groups and communities.

Excerpts from Civic Responsibility and Higher Education, edited by Thomas Ehrlich, published by Oryx Press, 2000.

Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.
Preface, page vi

Civic engagement through the Center for Community Engagement takes form primarily through the SHSU American Democracy Project. Other related initiatives include:

• Reba Bock Fellows Experience
• Arleigh B. Templeton Graduate Fellows Experience
• Pheonix Commotion Fellowship
• Constitution Day

Volunteerism and Civic Engagement

Volunteerism is just one part of civic engagement, but it plays a significant role here at Sam Houston State University - where our motto is "The measure of a Life is its Service". Through on-campus organizations and offices, Bearkats are able to find numerous opportunities to work with various community partners outside of the classroom.

JustServe’s database provides opportunities to get involved. Search for a specific location, organization, or project at JustServe.org.

If you are a student looking for other ways to volunteer, you can contact Student Involvement: Leadership and Service. You can also check out these SHSU programs that are connected in the community.

• Greek Life
• ROTC
• Honors College
• Smith-Hutson Scholars
• Athletics
• SBDC
• Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics