Originally founded in 1849 as the State Normal School, Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) is a comprehensive public university located in New Britain, Connecticut and is the oldest university in the state. Today, CCSU is a driving force of the economic, social, cultural, and intellectual development of Connecticut.

“At CCSU, we recognize that being centered in the urban environment of New Britain, CT, we have a responsibility to engage with, and continue to collaborate with, our neighbors. Our membership in CUMU provides rich opportunities to share best practices, explore avenues for collaboration with community partners, and share ideas for engagement, assessment, and resources,” said Beth Merenstein, AVP for Community Engagement and Experiential Learning.

Community engagement plays an integral role in defining CCSU’s distinctive mission. And, CCSU is one of a few universities in Connecticut to be designated by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a Community Engagement University. At CCSU, the Center for Community Engagement and Social Research (CCESR) facilitates partnerships with local business, nonprofit, and government agencies throughout New Britain and the greater Hartford area that lead to meaningful volunteer, service-learning, and other community engagement opportunities. Additionally, the Center engages the CCSU campus community in projects and outreach that are mutually beneficial, contribute to the greater good, and build a sense of civic responsibility.

Experiential learning opportunities supported by CCESR include:

  • Community engagement projects and courses
  • Community-based research
  • Service-learning projects
  • Internships, especially in nonprofit and government agencies
  • Volunteering
  • Undergraduate research opportunities

The Office of School-Community Partnership provides other opportunities to get students involved in the community. OSCP gives students the opportunity to be student teachers so that they will be prepared for service in diverse communities and supports the mission of the School of Education and Professional studies in the preparation of professionals for the early childhood, elementary, secondary, special education, and K-12 setting.

With more than 85 percent of graduates remaining in Connecticut, Central is a vital pipeline for an array of professions in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, including engineering, social services, health care, law enforcement, education, business, and industry, among others.

Join us in welcoming Central Connecticut State University to the CUMU membership.