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FIU among 25 universities recognized for leadership for public purpose
FIU students visit households as part of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine’s Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP.

FIU among 25 universities recognized for leadership for public purpose

June 14, 2024 at 11:14am


Florida International University has earned the Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose designation for its exemplary commitment to cultivating leadership skills across the university community and fostering a commitment to tackling some of the greatest challenges of our time. FIU is one of only 25 institutions worldwide to receive this recognition in its inaugural year.

“Congratulations to these pioneering recipients of the inaugural Carnegie Leadership for Public Purpose Classification,” said Carnegie Foundation President Timothy F.C. Knowles. “These institutions have demonstrated a relentless commitment to fostering leaders dedicated to the pursuit of vital public goods. Students from these institutions will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for us all, upholding fundamental American values and advancing opportunity for the nation.”

This recognition comes on the heels of FIU ranking No. 2 in the U.S. and No. 13 in the world for impact in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

“Carnegie’s recognition is yet another indication of the profound impact and exceptional return on investment FIU offers our students, our community, the State of Florida and the world,”  said President Kenneth A. Jessell. “Being one of only 25 institutions worldwide to receive this recognition makes it all the more special.”

FIU's commitment to leadership for public purpose is evident in several key areas:

Student Development: FIU’s Center for Leadership and Service provides developmental and experiential learning opportunities for students through various programs, including the Certified Leader Program, the Excellence in Civic Engagement Medallion of Distinction, and the Academy of Leaders (AOL). Additionally, students can build leadership skills through seminars and internship placements focused on public service through FIU in D.C.

Research & Scholarship: FIU’s notable research in environmental resilience with a long-term restoration project in the Florida Everglades, and in utilizing new approaches in pediatric cancer treatments through the innovative work of researcher Diana Azzam demonstrates leadership for public purpose.

Service & Engagement: FIU invests in its community, leading programs and initiatives that contribute to the common good. FIU’s Center for Community Impact and Public Purpose (CCIPP) cultivates and incubates partnerships across the university and the community. FIU's Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine's NeighborhoodHELP program delivers healthcare services to thousands of community members via mobile health centers and a mammography van. FIU’s College of Law’s Pro Bono program instills a commitment to public service in future lawyers through experiential learning requirements and legal clinics.