Civic Engagement & Student Leadership Programs

Alfred State is here to inspire involvement, facilitate learning, and help students make a positive difference in their community within and beyond campus. We work together with community partners to create opportunities to identify and address community challenges together - here in Alfred, regionally, and beyond. Regardless of your major, interests, and background, you will find opportunity to bring your learning to life by serving others. Our vision is for you to develop into a leader equipped to make a positive difference in the world.

We are located within the Student Leadership Center - a building dedicated to inspiring involvement in community and leadership opportunities. Students can plug into alternative fall/spring break trips, disaster relief trips, community service days, and other special events on and off campus. Most student clubs and organizations are involved in civic engagement which can be a great way to get involved.

Civic wellbeing also supports students wishing to enhance their leadership skills through special events, programming, and honor societies. Leadership development can enhance your student experience and build the skills and experience that employers are seeking. Highlighted below are opportunities to get involved:

National Society of Leadership and Success: NSLS is the nation's largest leadership honor society and provides a step-by-step program for members to build their leadership skills. Upon completion of the program, members receive their leadership certificate and take their place among the top student leaders at their campus and across the country.
SUNY Leadership Academy: Competitive program offered annually to several students to engage in learning alongside other SUNY students.
Leadership Suites: Competitive space available for clubs/organizations that demonstrate a high level of civic leadership focused on a specific community cause.
Leadership Series: Regularly scheduled speaker series highlights alumni, employers, and faculty/staff who focus on relevant topics.

Our commitment to civic engagement is deeply embedded in a hands-on approach to education through project-based learning experiences. By combining real-world learning situations with community engagement, Alfred State students make significant contributions to people and communities around the world. Annually, students contribute tens of thousands of service hours through volunteerism, civic leadership, and workforce-ready knowledge to communities in need. Join others in being part of the solution. Contact civicengagement@alfredstate.edu to learn more.