The "Lasting Engagement" series presents case studies of institutions of higher education that have succeeded in institutionalizing their commitment to community engagement. This introductory volume looks at an institution with a rich history. Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts, has been guided, since its beginnings in 1885, by a "humanics" philosophy that sees involvement in the community and service to others as an ultimate moral ideal. In the 1990s, the college shifted from a missionary model of carrying out its own service agenda in the local community to working with a broad array of community stakeholders to establish two-way partnerships that emphasize social justice. Also included in this first volume is an overview, "American Higher Education and Community Engagement: A Historical Perspective" by Lynn Michelle Ross, that traces the history of community engagement from colonial times to the present. The case study explores some of the changes at Springfield College that made this new approach to community service possible. Data are from a variety of sources, including interviews with college personnel. Lessons for other institutions from Springfield College's experiences are traced. Appendix A lists those interviewed for the study. Appendixes B and C provide additional information about the college. (Contains 72 references.) (SLD)