Mission
The mission of the North Park University Center for Civic Engagement is to advance a city-centered ethos on campus and augment North Park’s commitment to the just flourishing of cities.
The Center for Civic Engagement enacts its mission through its core divisions: Catalyst Hub, the Community Assets and Program Evaluation Consortium, the Community Development Hub, and Public Policy Engagement. Each division has its own objectives, activities, and affiliated faculty and staff. Divisions work independently and collaboratively to advance the broad mission of the Center for Civic Engagement.
History
The Center for Civic Engagement is an outgrowth of Catalyst 606_, piloted in 2017. The program created a designated civic engagement block to be incorporated into classes across the curriculum, with faculty and students learning directly from community leaders across Chicago. Reflecting North Park’s foundational commitments as a Christian, city-centered, intercultural university, the Center for Civic Engagement builds on the success of the Catalyst program while extending the dual mission of advancing civic engagement on campus and working with community organizations.
Catalyst Hub
Semester-long cohort programs, faith-based learning communities, experiential learning opportunities, and events centering community leaders comprise Catalyst.
Community Assets and Program Evaluation Consortium
Community-based research and project-based learning in partnership with local nonprofits, program evaluation, and resourcing for local nonprofits are included in this consortium.
Community Development Hub
This hub includes urban planning and economic development initiatives with a social justice orientation.
Public Policy Engagement
A new major in public policy, as well as training opportunities in community organizing and civic leadership are the focus of this core program.
Contact Us
Richard Kohng, Assistant Vice President, Center for Civic Engagement
View the organizational chart for the Center for Civic Engagement.