This session will explore the findings of a new study that delves deep into the institutional and professional practices that enable community engagement professionals (CEPs) to play pivotal roles in fulfilling higher education's civic mission. Recently published in the Journal for Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, the mixed-methods research study employs a national network of CEPs to share their valuable insights, laying the foundation for a captivating analysis that sheds light on five fundamental themes that demand attention from institutions and the field at large. The session will offer actionable strategies on building pathways and dismantling barriers for early-career civic professionals to enter and thrive in higher education.