Commitment to Community Engagement
Inspired by the university’s mission, “to impact society in a transformative way—regionally, nationally, and globally—by engaging with partners outside the traditional borders of the university campus,” this award is designed to highlight and celebrate significant contributions of staff members who engage with the broader community. The award celebrates staff who form active and collaborative partnerships with surrounding regional, national and global communities. It honors the efforts of individuals in various roles who advance innovative, sustainable, and productive community-centered change in a number of ways.
Criteria includes leading by example in providing exceptional service to university and community partners; demonstrating a strong commitment to increasing their own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to community engagement within their sphere of influence; creating and nurturing a welcoming and equitable environment for community and university collaboration; cultivating authentic connections with individuals and organizations, anchored in valuing community-held experience and knowledge; raising awareness of the impact of CMU and the broader community working together for the greater good; and making a positive impact within the CMU community related to community engagement, such as inspiring others to engage with or create communities of practice.
2026 Nominees
Jeanne Crichlow
Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Jeanne creates a welcoming, service-oriented environment by fostering strong relationships across campus and supporting local businesses, strengthening ties between CMU and the Pittsburgh community. Her genuine care, collaborative spirit and everyday acts of connection exemplify the impact of community engagement.
Carole Panno
University Advancement
Carole’s exceptional leadership in community engagement is highlighted by her direction of the 2025 CMU Community Food Drive. Expanded campus-wide participation via innovative outreach and strong partnerships helped the drive surpass its goal by collecting a total of $125,901. Her inclusive, collaborative approach strengthened CMU’s relationship with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and inspired lasting community impact.
Liz Vaughan
Community Engagement & Leadership Development
Liz’s leadership has embedded community engagement as a core part of the CMU student experience. She launched key initiatives such as the Student-Centered Community Engagement and Learning Network and the Tartan Basic Needs Collective. Her collaborative, empathetic leadership has created lasting infrastructure, expanded student opportunities and fostered a culture of meaningful, community-centered engagement.
Sgt. Mark Villaseñor
University Police
Mark has helped build trust and meaningful connections between CMUPD and the community. As head of the Community Resource Unit, he has led impactful initiatives, including the Scotty Strong self-defense program, as well as community events and partnerships that promote education, inclusion and collaboration on and off campus. Mark’s proactive, relationship-centered approach has strengthened campus safety, expanded community engagement and exemplified CMU’s commitment to service.