The UNISERVITATE program, led by the Latin American Center for Service-learning (CLAYSS) through support from PORTICUS, aims to generate a systemic change in Catholic higher education worldwide, through the institutionalization of service-learning as a tool to achieve its mission of an integrated education, specifically incorporating the spiritual dimension.
Since 2020, ACCU has served as Uniservitate’s regional hub for North America. Specifically, ACCU has been tasked with building a research plan to compile and systematize the region’s research and best practices in the spiritual dimension of service-learning; institutionalization models and processes among USA-Canada Catholic higher educational institutions; and the impact of service-learning programs on students, institution, and communities.
2026 Uniservitate Global Service-Learning Awardees
These awards, distributed in seven regions globally, are given in recognition of service-learning experiences in Catholic Higher Education. Based on the assertion of the global impact on education through service, the selection of the winning experiences involves a rigorous process with multiple stages and diverse panels of judges.
This year’s winning institutions and programs for the North American region are:
First Prize Winner for the Program Category (New in 2026):
- University of Dayton, Fitz Center: “Leadership in Community”
Honorable Mention:
- De Paul University, The Steans Center: “Community-based Service Learning and Community Service Studies”
First Prize Winners for the Project Category:
- University of San Diego: “Restorative Justice Fitness Program”
Honorable Mentions:
- Loyola University Chicago: “Social Justice Internship”
- Gwynedd Mercy University: “Mercy and Mustard Seed: Building a Sustainable International Service Partnership”
Additionally, Australia Catholic University was a first prize winner for their program, “Thomas More Law School Pro bono Legal Service and Education Program” for the Asia and Oceania Region.
Organized biennially, first prize award recipients receive a cash award along with the opportunity to participate in the Uniservitate Global Symposium this November in Rome, Italy.