CARNEGIE ELECTIVE CLASSIFICATION
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Carnegie Elective Classification
CMC Recognized for Leadership for Public Purpose
The Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose is a new recognition introduced by the Carnegie Foundation to honor institutions that demonstrate a strong, campus-wide commitment to leadership initiatives focused on the public good, including justice, equity, diversity, and societal impact.
In January 2020, the Carnegie Foundation, in partnership with the American Council on Education, launched this elective classification, with Claremont McKenna College (CMC) among the nine founding institutions. The inaugural 2024 cohort includes 25 institutions, including CMC, Arizona State University, and Simmons University. The classification encourages institutions from all sectors —community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and research universities—to undergo a rigorous, peer- reviewed assessment of their leadership programs. These programs must demonstrate how they foster responsible leadership that addresses both local and global issues and contributes to the broader public good. For CMC, the effort to earn this distinction involved a comprehensive, four-year initiative led by David Day, Professor and Academic Director at the Kravis Leadership Institute. The college focused on integrating leadership education into every aspect of campus life, from the curriculum and student programming to alumni engagement and staff development. CMC’s leadership programs align with the College’s mission to prepare students for thoughtful, productive lives and responsible leadership in business, government, and beyond. Central to this effort is the Open Academy, which emphasizes ethical leadership, critical thinking, and an understanding of power, privilege, and systemic issues in society. The classification process is not a one-time achievement but part of a broader commitment to continuous improvement. As Day explained, the spirit of the classification is grounded in ongoing self-assessment and the pursuit of further leadership goals. CMC, like other institutions in the inaugural cohort, will continue to evaluate and refine its leadership initiatives, ensuring they remain aligned with the public good and respond to evolving societal challenges. Ultimately, the Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose seeks to foster a broader understanding of leadership as a public good and encourage institutions to cultivate leadership that is ethical, inclusive, and focused on the betterment of society.
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