What is Civic Engagement?

Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.

- Preface, page vi

"A morally and civically responsible individual recognizes himself or herself as a member of a larger social fabric and therefore considers social problems to be at least partly his or her own; such an individual is willing to see the moral and civic dimensions of issues, to make and justify informed moral and civic judgments, and to take action when appropriate.

- Introduction, page xxvi"

        Excerpts from "Civic Responsibility and Higher Education," edited by Thomas Ehrlich,
        Oryx Press, 2000.

"Constitution Day reminds us of how fortunate we are to have a system of government which guards against tyranny and oppression - a government held accountable to its people who enjoy freedom of speech, of religion and of the press. Constitution Day provides an opportunity for all of us, as Americans, to reflect upon our enduring system of government."

        Writing exerpt from a SUNY Oswego American Intellectual Heritage Class project

Mission Statement

The mission of the Civic Engagement Coalition at SUNY Oswego is to promote democratic practice and values among students, faculty, and staff to create and coordinate purposeful experiences within and beyond the classroom and to develop knowledge, skills, motivation, and practice necessary for becoming responsible, engaged citizens in a pluralistic, democratic society.

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Civic Engagement is part of SUNY Oswego's Sesquicentennial Plan