“This effort is absent even a hint of artifice. The relationship between Seattle U and its neighbors works both ways. A community gets to tap into the considerable resources of the private university on the hill and Seattle U gets to sharpen the Jesuit philosophy of public service that helps distinguish it from other schools.” - The Seattle Times

Engaged Campus

The U.S. News and World Report and many other national publications have recognized Seattle University’s expansive commitment to providing students with community engagement experiences in Seattle and throughout the world. Every year, Seattle University faculty engage students in hundreds of community engaged learning courses and students participate in dozens of out-of-classroom community projects. Because of its commitment to connecting campus and community, Seattle University attracts students interested in expanding and deepening their commitment to justice.

By concentrating resources and partnerships in several neighborhoods adjacent to campus, the Seattle University Youth Initiative (SUYI) builds upon this widespread commitment to community engagement by offering students, faculty and staff intensive opportunities to more fully understand and participate in the pursuit of equitable and just communities. Through the Youth Initiative:

• Seattle University students learn about the history, context and social ecology of the Youth Initiative neighborhoods that goes beyond the paradigm of one-time service events to long-term sustained partnerships. In this process students develop skills to work for positive social change during their time at the university and after graduation. Opportunities include mentoring children in local schools, assisting in early learning classrooms, leading other students, or serving and learning with a SUYI partner. Get involved in the Youth Initiative.
• Seattle University faculty cultivate long-term and sustained commitments to expanding their skills as community engaged scholars and build the capacity of Youth Initiative community partners. Faculty can choose from several faculty development programs designed to enhance their teaching and research as well as increase knowledge about Youth Initiative neighborhoods.
• Seattle University staff participate in year-long service opportunities available through the community service leave benefit and organize or participate in sustained projects within the Initiative’s neighborhoods.

Learn more about Youth Initiative stories, impact and lessons learned.