EIU Media Relations

Eastern Illinois University Named a Lead Institution in Civic Engagement by National Association

Eastern Illinois University has been selected to participate in a national initiative on civic learning and democratic engagement. Eastern Illinois University has been named one of nearly 100 colleges and universities in the nation as a Lead Institution by NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, the leading voice for the student affairs profession.

As a participating institution in NASPA’s initiative, Eastern Illinois University will continue to encourage students’ civic development through thoughtful community partnerships, engaging leadership opportunities and democratic participation. 

“Eastern Illinois University is pleased to have been selected for a second consecutive year to participate in NASPA’s network of institutions dedicated to developing students’ sense of civic identity as civic engagement is a core value of higher education,” said Dan Nadler, vice president for student affairs.  “Being recognized as a national leader in this field is a reflection of the quality of our current efforts and also our ongoing commitment to inspiring students to challenge themselves through leadership and service roles moving forward.”

“Eastern Illinois University is continuing to build upon our strong tradition of student volunteerism and civic engagement,” said Rachel Fisher, director of student community service. “During the past five years, our students have contributed more than 500,000 hours of service, addressing such critical issues as hunger, poverty and homelessness, animal protection, conservation, veterans appreciation and assistance initiatives, and helping our elderly and local youth through various ongoing results-driven service programs.”

“We have been recognized for our national leadership in service by being selected for the President’s National Honor Roll for Community Service. This year alone, EIU students are projecting to complete 140,000 hours of service taking our total hours of service to more than 600,000 over the past five years,” Fisher continued.  

To learn more about NASPA’s Lead Initiative and view a complete listing of participating institutions, please visit the NASPA website here.