Leading the Charge: Rutgers–Camden Recognized for Exemplary Community Engagement

Rutgers University–Camden has earned the 2024 Richard Guarasci Award for Institutional Transformation from Campus Compact, the largest and oldest higher education association dedicated to community and civic engagement. The Guarasci Award honors colleges and universities “anchored by a team that advances civic and community engagement across teaching, research, and practice.”

“For many years the Rutgers Camden team has been a leader in civic engagement, inclusion, and democratic education,” said Richard Guarasci, president emeritus of Wagner College and former chair of the Campus Compact Board of Directors. “Their leadership has provided an excellent model for all universities to emulate. I am so pleased to see their work recognized and saluted with this award in my name.”

As senior vice chancellor for strategy, diversity, and community engagement, Nyeema Watson joins Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis in leading the university’s efforts to help all members of the Rutgers–Camden community feel welcome, valued, and respected. Initiatives to that end include academic programs focused on diversity, such as Africana studies and gender studies; activities and organizations that open minds to new ways of thinking; and a variety of support services focused on preventing bias, empowering members of marginalized groups to thrive, and much more.

“Community and civic engagement are at the core of our institution,” Chancellor Tillis said. “Without honoring and uplifting our beloved Camden community, we cannot succeed in equipping the next generation of civic-minded, compassionate leaders. To everyone who played a part in this prestigious recognition, from faculty, leaders like Senior Vice Chancellor Watson, and students who have given their time as volunteers, I thank you for your contribution.”

Campus Compact is a national nonprofit comprising thousands of presidents, faculty, researchers, students, and civic and community engagement experts in higher education. The organization takes a comprehensive approach to supporting member institutions, helping them build the knowledge, skills, and capacity needed to create a just, equitable, and sustainable future.

For more information on Rutgers–Camden’s 2024 Richard Guarasci Award for Institutional Transformation, visit the Campus Compact website.