A Future Built on Values
Imagine a world where every individual embodies the values of integrity, service, and respect—where education transcends traditional learning, nurturing not just intellect but character. This is the vision we strive for at Holy Family University, guided by our mission of teneor votis—I am bound by my responsibilities. During today’s town hall, our Chief of Staff, Dr. Sylvia McGeary, posed a question: What would the world look like if we truly succeeded in carrying out our mission? It has really made my wheels spin.
I believe our commitment to the University’s mission is intentionally woven into our core curriculum, which is anchored by our six core values: family, respect, integrity, service and responsibility, learning, and vision.
Each of these values is not just a concept but a guiding principle, each supported by six relevant, buildable skills, making a total of thirty-six skills that are reinforced throughout our coursework and extra/co-curricular activities. Together, these values and skills form a foundation for our students, cultivating a generation prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
My response to Dr. McGeary’s question: If we successfully carry out our mission, the world will be transformed into a more compassionate, equitable, and resilient place. If we successfully carry out our mission, Holy Family University is helping to create a future built on values.
The Value of Family
In a world where collaboration is a key skill, communities will thrive on teamwork and shared goals. Our students, equipped with skills in interpersonal communication and conflict resolution, will unite to tackle societal challenges, whether in local neighborhoods or on global platforms, creating a culture of cooperation rather than division.
The Value of Respect
With compassion at the forefront, our graduates will become empathetic leaders who prioritize understanding and inclusivity. By actively listening and valuing diverse perspectives, they will foster environments where everyone feels heard and respected, bridging gaps in communication and dismantling barriers.
The Value of Integrity
Integrity will become a cornerstone of personal and professional conduct. Graduates who embody honesty and humility will lead by example, building trust within their organizations and communities. As these leaders prioritize ethical decision-making, the ripple effect will inspire others to do the same, fostering a culture of accountability.
The Value of Service and Responsibility
With a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to service, our students will engage actively in their communities. They will initiate and participate in projects that address pressing issues, from environmental sustainability to social justice, ensuring that service becomes a lifelong pursuit.
The Value of Learning
Learning will extend beyond the classroom, ingrained in the very fabric of who our students are. With self reflection and curiosity as core skills, they will embrace change and pursue knowledge relentlessly, contributing to innovation and progress in various fields. This mindset will foster a culture of continuous improvement, where individuals seek to better themselves and their communities.
The Value of Vision
Finally, with a clear vision of what is possible, our graduates will inspire others to dream big. They will cultivate a forward-thinking mindset that encourages creative problem-solving and innovative solutions to complex challenges. This vision will not only drive personal success but will also uplift those around them, creating a collective journey toward a better future.
As we reflect on what the world could look like if we succeed in our University’s mission, it’s essential to recognize that this vision starts with each of us. By embracing our core values and committing to the development of these thirty-six skills, we can build a community that actively shapes a better world.
I invite you—students, faculty, and staff—to engage fully with our mission of teneor votis. Together, let’s invest in our future by nurturing character, promoting compassion, and exemplifying responsibility. The world we aspire to create is within our reach, one value and one skill at a time.
