FIU ranks among the top universities in the country in engagement and contributions to its community, according to The Washington Monthly’s recently-released rankings of national universities.

Among the rankings, FIU placed 24th out of 281 higher education institutions in the number of faculty receiving significant awards. The university also ranked 10th in federal work-study funds allocated to service, 43rd in graduation rate, and 47th in the number of academic courses that incorporate service in the curriculum.

The Washington Monthly survey scores universities based on service and contributions to their community.

“After all, higher education matters to more than just the people who attend,” according to the publication. “We all benefit when university researchers produce groundbreaking research in science, medicine, and technology.”

Overall, FIU ranked 53rd, a steady climb since 2009, when the university ranked 177th.

“We are pleased to see FIU is rising on this list, which ranks universities on their contributions to ‘the public good,’” said FIU Provost and Executive Vice President Douglas Wartzok. “It recognizes our efforts to be engaged with our community and build a reputation as an anchor institution and solution center in South Florida.”