Civic engagement and student success have become a hallmark of Indiana University--Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). In 2008 a new program supporting increased student engagement and deeper learning was implemented, the RISE (Research, International Study, Service Learning, and Experiential Learning) to the IUPUI Challenge initiative advocating student engagement in authentic experiences. Following the history and theoretical rationale of this initiative, data will document adoption of RISE along with challenges and future implications.