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Through its direct connection to the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, the foundresses of the University, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø is directly connected to the larger historical and spiritual Franciscan legacy founded in the thirteenth century by Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Clare of Assisi. Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø is focused on producing new avenues for Franciscan life and expression in the U.S. and around the globe.

The academic experience of the student at the University goes far beyond what happens in individual classrooms or courses. Although academics are central to the mission of the University, the student experience at Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø will be shaped by everything they encounter. In the classroom, students will be engaged and challenged, developing the skills they need to be successful upon graduation.

As a private institution working for the public good, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø is built upon a commitment to the community, evidenced, in part, by the development of high value partnerships. As good stewards of limited resources, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø actively seeks, and engages with, community partners to create mutually beneficial relationships.

Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø takes a holistic approach to the student experience, encouraging students to expand their horizons and participate fully in the life of the University through their participation in residence life, athletics, and co-curricular activities. A renewed focus on community partnerships allows Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±Íø to offer a world-class, transformational (mind, body, spirit, and community) and affordable student experience.

The concept of stewardship aligns with a Franciscan perspective on sustainability when one views the environment as God’s creation. Sustainability includes four interlinked dimensions: Environmental Responsibility (e.g., energy and water conservation, recycling, transportation, green space); Social Equity (e.g., shared decision making, sense of community, diverse campus community; equitable pay); Economic Health (e.g., purchasing locally manufactured items, hiring people from within the local community); and Cultural Vitality (e.g., values, heritage, sense of place, and retaining and respecting traditions).