University mission emphasizes connections

An integral part of Portland State University's mission is to create sustained, mutually beneficial partnerships with regional, national, and international communities, to enrich the learning environment for our students and respond to our partners' aspirations. We emphasize our connections to the community in our undergraduate, graduate, and lifelong learning programs. We integrate community connections throughout our research activities and curricula via community-based learning courses, Senior Capstones, practica, internships, and special international programs.

The PSU motto, “Let knowledge serve the city,” reflects our relationships with our metropolitan and international partners. Knowledge gained regionally and globally serves teaching, learning, and research at the university, which ultimately benefits our local community.

Four principles guide university activities in community and global engagement.

• Create enriching, mutually beneficial opportunities for PSU students and faculty to learn and problem-solve in regional, national, and international community settings.
• Examine and enhance the ways that teaching and research serve the regional, national, and international communities.
• Assist students to expand their professional and life skills through community engagement.
• Provide academic and cultural experiences for U.S. and international students studying on the PSU campus and abroad.

Principles of engagement guide spectrum of activities

Evidence of community and global connections at PSU arises in six key areas where diverse initiatives have made strong roots: in the Alumni Association, and programs for civic engagement, community-based learning, extended studies, internationalization, and Senior Capstones. See the menu of links for details in each area.