Campus Compact is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 cohort of the Engaged Scholars Initiative (ESI). The cohort will consist of up to 20 early-career* faculty and staff from Campus Compact member institutions. The cost to participate is $1,000 per person. Group pricing and limited scholarships are available. Applications close on May 22nd, 2026, start your application today.
What is ESI?
A year-long professional development experience designed specifically for faculty and staff who are early in their career and committed to advancing community engagement. Through a mix of workshops and peer connection and learning, participants deepen their understanding of community engaged practices while refining their professional goals. Each member of the cohort gains the necessary skills and knowledge to continue career progression and make a long term impact on the field.
ESI is not designed to be prescriptive for participants and recognizes that differences in position type and scholarly priorities may result in different programmatic needs. The ESI experience utilizes a participant-centered, constructivist approach that allows facilitators to adapt programming to individual and cohort needs and priorities.
*Early Career is defined as pre-tenure for those on the faculty track; faculty in contract systems should not be beyond their sixth (6) year; and less than eight (8) years in the field of higher education community engagement for staff and administrators.
Have questions about the program? Need application assistance? Reach out to our professional development team for support.