GALLOWAY. N.J. - Stockton University has received the Civic Learning and Community Engagement Award from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities for its work with the American Democracy Project and service learning.

The award, one of the group’s Excellence and Innovation awards, will be presented Oct. 22 at the AASCU’s annual meeting in California.

In announcing the award, the AASCU noted that Stockton was a founding member of the American Democracy Project (ADP), and its involvement demonstrates strategic and long-term commitment to institutionalizing and advancing student civic learning, community engagement and regional stewardship. At Stockton, ADP has been a catalyst for creating a cohort of faculty, staff and students that take part in a number of projects related to service-learning, including workshops, public events and courses.

“Innovation at America’s state colleges and universities is focused on advancing the quality of the educational experience for their students and the distinction of their institutions in service to their communities,” said AASCU President Muriel A. Howard. “The programs for which these universities are being honored will inspire not only their AASCU colleagues but all of higher education.”

The winning entries required evidence of top-level administrative support; connection with an institution’s mission and strategic agenda; contribution to significant institutional improvements or programming; and grounding in research and best practices.