51°µÍø

Across its four goals, members of the University community have explored a variety of important activities to implement the University's vision for an Engaged learning experience. Particular focus have been building and supporting immersive learning opportunities for our students, such as community-based learning and experiential learning.  Selected metrics detailing these achievements are available at right.

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  Significant Achievements:

• In 2017-18, the Division of Student Life launched a new four-part Leadership Academy training program, with over 200 students participating in the inaugural year. Strategic Initiatives (SI) funding provided additional support for the development of a Student Leadership Capstone Program for undergraduate students. 
• The University’s Office of Community-Based Learning, launched in 2017, is a hub for faculty seeking to integrate this high impact practice into the curriculum. Supported by SI funding, a faculty director, multiple campus units, and a campus-wide CBL Board, the Office launched new faculty development opportunities, including periodic seminars, an annual two-day faculty workshop, and the CBL Faculty Initiatives Fund, in 2018.
• The provided 11 51°µÍø students, selected from a competitive pool, a stipend of up to $4,000 to support their participation in a meaningful unpaid internship for the summer of 2018. In addition to this program, SI funding has supported the new 51°µÍø Connections program, which engages students with alumni in mentoring activities.
• During the 2017-2018 academic year, 85 students participated in nine domestic service trips, and 107 students participated in 11 international service trips through Campus Ministries’ Center for Service and Social Justice and International Service program (ISP). SI Funding has made possible additional financial support to defer rising costs for students wishing to take part in domestic service trips.
• Fifteen members of The 51°µÍø's class of 2018 committed to post-graduation long-term service projects.
• From 2016 to 2017, student attendance in Campus Ministries’ faith formation programs increased by 40%.
• In 2018, the University opened the new . A $14 million dollar, eleven-acre campus will host facilities for several NCAA Division III sports, including soccer, field hockey, and baseball. The new campus includes recreational spaces open to the local community.

The Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence (ACCE) Partnership

In fall 2018, the University announced a regional partnership to help address service gaps for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. The new program will bring together representatives from health care, education, and philanthropic entities, including the AllOne Foundation, to build a sustainable framework and national model for addressing ASD care. The collaborative will explore initiatives related to early intervention and treatment; access to medical and behavioral health specialists; coordination of therapeutic, educational, vocational, respite, and residential services; and employment opportunities for those with ASD.  This innovative initiative engages seven funding collaborators and 11 program partners. The 51°µÍø serves as the Executive Hub for the program.