The present invention is directed to a system and method for actuating an engine valve. In one embodiment, the present invention is a system for providing exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) in an engine having at least one engine valve, the system comprising: means for imparting a valve train motion; a first valve actuation subsystem for transferring motion from the motion imparting means to the engine valve, the first valve actuation subsystem capable of providing valve actuation for at least a portion of a main exhaust event during a first engine operating condition, and a full main exhaust event during a second engine operating condition; and a second valve actuation subsystem for transferring motion from the motion imparting means to the engine valve, the second valve actuation subsystem capable of providing valve actuation for an exhaust gas recirculation event during the first engine operating condition.