Community Engagement

The Carnegie Foundation selected APU as 1 of 119 institutions to receive the 2020 Community Engagement Classification. These institutions join the 240 institutions that earned the classification during the 2015 selection process, for a total of 359 campuses that are active holders of this important designation. This distinction recognizes universities that demonstrate a high level of commitment to community service and service-learning.

Under the direction of the President’s Cabinet, the Community Engagement Committee (CEC) will:

1. Communicate best practices for community engagement across the university (curricular, co-curricular, research, and other).
2. Lead the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement self-study process for each renewal cycle.
3. Represent community engagement among current and future committees, task groups, university goals, department initiatives and be available for consultation.
4. Coordinate tracking, vetting, and evaluation practices with university community partnerships.
5. Manage APU’s annual Community-Engaged Learning Student Award nominations, selection, and awards 
6. Lead the implementation of university improvements relevant to enhanced community engagement as noted in suggested Carnegie Areas of Improvement.
7. Adhere to the implementation of all necessary documentation regarding community engagement (MOUs, Agreement Forms, etc) as set forth by APU General Counsel.
8. Collaborate with APU General Counsel to identify needs.

Download Concise Summary of APU’s Community Engagement Principles (PDF) Download APU Community Engagement Principles (PDF)

APU’s Community-Engaged Learning Award was established in 2003 and is funded by the Berdena Ruth Foundation. The aim of this award is to promote the ideals of servant leadership in the area of community service. Service performed by the nominated students may have been performed within APU, in the community, internationally, and/or through an academic course. The award is given to two graduating undergraduate seniors. Each student receives a monetary award of $1,200, $200 of which is donated to a charity of their choice.

There are four areas of servant leadership for which students can be recognized:

• Service within APU
• Service in the community
• Service through an academic course
• Service internationally

This program is funded by an annual gift of $2,500 from the Berdena Ruth Scholarship. 

Natalie Hultgren

Nursing Major and Psychology and Biblical Studies Minor

Service Choice: Casa Mis Sueños, Isla San Cristóbal 309, 170102 Quito, Ecuador

During her time at APU, Natalie Hultgren has made a meaningful impact through her dedication to service and leadership. She has been actively involved in a variety of global outreach efforts, including medical and ministry trips, where she not only served but also helped lead and mentor fellow students. Whether working in clinics, supporting teams, or engaging in ministry, Natalie approaches every opportunity with intentionality and a desire to genuinely connect with others. Known for her warmth, positivity, and selfless spirit, she consistently prioritizes the needs of those around her. Her involvement on campus, including her role as a Resident Advisor and her work with the Office of Service and Discipleship, reflects her commitment to creating spaces where others feel supported and seen. Grounded in her faith, Natalie lives out a posture of humility and obedience, striving to serve with purpose. As she looks ahead to a career in nursing, she hopes to continue integrating her passion for service, cross-cultural care, and missions, with a long-term goal to invest in future students the same way she has been invested in.

Andres Cardenas

Visual Arts and Honors Humanities Major

Service Choice: City of Hope, Orange County 1000 Fivepoint, Irvine, CA 92618

Andres Cardenas has had a powerful and compassionate presence in the APU community, dedicating himself to serving others with humility and tenacity. Through his involvement with the Office of Service and Discipleship, Andres has invested deeply in both local and global engagement, participating in initiatives such as Experience LA, Maui relief efforts, and a service trip to Italy. He has also worked closely with individuals with disabilities through ministries like Young Life Capernaum and the Autism Society, where his heart for inclusion and dignity has been especially evident. Andres exemplifies leadership by uplifting others and showing genuine care. His passion for service is deeply shaped by his faith and personal experiences, including the influence of his family, which have instilled a profound sense of empathy and responsibility in him. As an artist and leader, Andres hopes to create spaces where everyone feels valued and to one day open a studio that fosters creativity and opportunity for those often overlooked. Wherever he is called, Andres remains committed to living a life of service, using his gifts to reflect God’s love and bring meaningful change to the communities around him. 

Cadence Youngman

Social Work Major and Honors Humanities and Psychology Minor

Service Choice: Hosanna Hope Church, 6804 Mohawk Trail, Yucca Valley, CA 92284, USA

Cadence has been a steadfast and compassionate presence wherever she goes, demonstrating servant leadership with humility and care for others. Over the past four years, she has faithfully served in children’s and special needs ministry, creating nurturing environments for young children during formative stages of their development. Her heart for people reaches everyone she meets on campus, especially in her discipleship and Alpha groups. Whether mentoring students, engaging in local outreach efforts, or serving in community-based programs, Cadence approaches each opportunity with a genuine desire to understand and support others. She shows up through actions and never fails to make others feel seen and valued. Shaped by her studies in social work and her diverse service experiences, she is deeply committed to being an advocate for others As she looks ahead to a future in law enforcement, Cadence hopes to bring a community-centered and servant-hearted approach to her work.