HILLSBORO, MO – Jefferson College received the 2026 Civic Engagement and Community Service Award from Insight Into Academia magazine, the largest and oldest publication defining and advancing best practices in higher education.
The Civic Engagement and Community Service Award recognizes institutions’ innovative service and deep community collaboration in volunteerism, fundraising efforts for community causes, advocacy and public education, civic participation, voter engagement, and more. Jefferson College is featured, along with 51 other programs, in the April 2026 issue of Insight Into Academia magazine.
“Being honored by Insight Into Academia reinforces the quality of the educational experience at Jefferson College,” said Dr. Dena McCaffrey, President. “This recognition celebrates what we have always known – the work of our faculty and students stands among the best programs in the entire United States. It is a fabulous way to showcase the College’s civic engagement activities and dedication to serving the community.”
Insight Into Academia magazine selected Jefferson College following recognition for Civic Leadership and Democracy Engagement by the Higher Learning Commission in 2025. The evaluation for the award included documentation of more than 1,400 students in 185 course sections having participated in service learning initiatives, as well as 2,568 community service hours contributed during the College’s Days of Service, along with other civic engagement initiatives across campus.
The ongoing efforts toward the College’s Civic Engagement strategic priority involved Brandi Gallaway and Sarah Lafser as Civic Engagement and Outreach Committee co-chairs; Dr. Amy Kausler, coordinator of service learning; Dedric Lee of Unify America Civic Gym; and Kaysie Watson, who coordinated Day of Service activities, among others.
“Higher education has always been a driving force in societal progress.” says Holly Mendelson, owner and publisher of Insight Into Academia magazine. “These institutions remind us that the true measure of higher education lies not only in the degrees awarded, but in the lives they uplift. Their leadership strengthens communities, inspires students, and sets a standard of excellence for all.”
For more information about the 2026 Civic Engagement and Community Service Award, visit insightintoacademia.com.
About Insight Into Academia
For more than 50 years, Insight Into Academia has empowered higher education leaders by defining and advancing the best practices that shape the future of the academy. Through thought-provoking articles, expert advice, valuable resources, and in-depth profiles of top programs at colleges and universities, and much more, Insight Into Academia spotlights the institutional exemplars driving academia and what comes next. When an institution appears in Insight Into Academia, it signals exceptional leadership and evidence-based excellence. To learn more visit www.Insightintoacademia.com
About Jefferson College
Jefferson College, with campuses in Hillsboro and Arnold, Missouri, offers five associate degree programs in four schools of learning with nearly 50 programs of study, as well as Workforce Training, Adult Education, Early College, an Area Technical School for high school students and certification programs in high-demand career fields. Since its first commencement ceremony in 1966, the college has celebrated approximately 30,000 graduates and maintains a 98 percent job placement rate. Learn more about Jefferson College on our website www.jeffco.edu.