The Rhodes College community pledged an ambitious 50,000 hours of service to local partners during the 2025-2026 academic year, celebrating the college’s century-long commitment to the City of Memphis since relocating its campus from Clarksville in 1925. The college has exceeded this goal!
As of today, 57,200 hours have been logged for the “Rhodes into Memphis: 100 Years of Service” campaign. Rhodes students have made a significant impact as researchers, fellows, interns, and volunteers. Faculty and staff also have volunteered their time and expertise with various organizations and by hosting events.
With more than 280 community partners—150 of which actively host and supervise hundreds of our students—Rhodes continues to strengthen its legacy of community engagement. Furthermore, it is among 277 U.S. colleges and universities recognized with the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. This honor attests to the college’s alignment of mission, culture, leadership, resources, and practices that drive dynamic and impactful community engagement.
“Although we have reached our goal, we aren’t stopping! The Turley Memphis Center for Community Engagement will continue to support students, faculty, and staff who want to have an impact in Memphis,” said Dr. Natalie Person, dean for community engagement.