With academic programs focused on the use of technology and science to solve human problems, CISE has a deep, inherent focus on outreach to the community. We partner with a wide array of community, non-profit, and governmental organizations to help them address current and future challenges.
Our students are actively involved in hands-on projects that address important community issues. For example,
- In Engineering, students are working with faculty to design and build a mobile STEM educational venue that will provide complimentary, hands-on learning experiences for K-12 students.
- Geography and ISAT students are working across disciplines to create an Edible Food Forest Garden (EFFG) – a unique and innovative learning opportunity that enhances awareness of sustainable food production and whole food nutrition. The EFFG will also expand pollinator habitats, restore marginal soils, improve localized nutrient cycling, enhance biodiversity, and provide local produce to the campus and community.
- Computer Science students and faculty team up with the Harrisonburg Immigration and Refugee Program to offer week-long computing camps to refugee students.
- Intelligence Analysis students are assessing the impact of potential sea-level rise on U.S. Naval installation infrastructure.
Our students and faculty also work on a variety of projects in the broader international community. Ongoing programs include field studies in Kenya and other areas in East Africa, energy issues in Costa Rica, and environmental issues in Malta. These programs provide a valuable learning experience and allow students to engage in hands-on work that addresses challenging local problems in the countries they visit.
We believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of making a positive impact.
Through community partnerships, local projects, international initiatives, and study abroad programs, we strive to equip our students with the skills and experiences needed to address complex issues and create meaningful change, both at home and abroad.
