Colorado State University Retains Prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Designation

Colorado State University has renewed the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement in the 2026 cycle, continuing a designation it has held since 2008. The recognition underscores CSU's statewide engagement mission, particularly in Larimer and Weld counties, where Extension supports agriculture, emergency readiness and community education.

"At Colorado State University, we believe no higher calling exists than resolutely standing in service to our communities," CSU President Amy Parsons said. "The Community Engagement classification validates the partnership we have with Colorado's public and private sectors in pursuit of community prosperity."

CSU Extension's more than 400 professionals are embedded in all 64 counties, delivering community-based education and programming. Student internships—from agrivoltaics research with farmers and ranchers to equine education at the Colorado State Fair—showcase how Extension connects campus expertise with on-the-ground community needs.

The Office of Engagement and Extension works with scholars across CSU to support communities addressing local needs and co-creating solutions to pressing issues.

CSU is one of 277 U.S. institutions holding the Carnegie Community Engagement classification, with 237 awarded in the latest 2026 cycle, according to the Carnegie Foundation.

Only four Colorado universities hold the designation: CSU, Metropolitan State University of Denver, University of Colorado Boulder and University of Denver.

CSU also is designated as a Carnegie doctoral research university based on high research activity, pairing its statewide engagement mission with intensive research output.