51Æ·²è

The 51Æ·²è prepares students to thrive in a rapidly-changing world and, in so doing, to improve the health of people, communities, and our planet.

We will realize this mission by committing to a distinctive approach to education that will make 51Æ·²èamong the most experientially driven institutions of higher education in the nation. We will provide teaching and learning that conjoins problem-based and hands-on learning, liberal education, and professional training to immerse students in an educational experience that prepares them with: 

• Habits of mind, such as cultural, quantitative, and information literacy, critical thinking, tolerance for ambiguity, and problem solving;
• Discipline-based knowledge in their chosen programs of study; and 
• Professional competencies, including emotional intelligence, the ability to collaborate in diverse teams, communicate persuasively, and be a thoughtful leader.

We will be an institution that challenges students to learn broadly, master their professional skills, and ask probing questions. In this way, they will prepare themselves for further study and successful careers, deeply rewarding lives, and meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

We are guided by the following values, essential to the culture of the 51Æ·²ècommunity.

Student Centeredness

We put the aspirations, needs, and success of our students at the center of all we do.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We believe the benefits of a richly varied campus community arise not only from the diversity of its people but also from a sense of belonging and the context this creates to explore and celebrate differences in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, underpinned by a sense of cultural humility and a commitment to ethical ideals.

Relentless Inquiry

We take nothing for granted and view thoughtful—even uncomfortable—questioning as essential to the pursuit of knowledge, contribution to society, and a life worth living. Our commitment to University-wide academic freedom is fundamental to this value.

Boundary Crossing

Solutions to the complex and varied challenges we face in our personal and professional lives, our communities, and society will not be found in any single discipline, college, physical location, or individual. Thus, our ability to move easily across such boundaries in order to collaborate with colleagues makes us better problem solvers and more likely of success in whatever ventures we undertake.

Learning Everywhere

We believe that teaching and learning should occur beyond traditional classrooms and laboratories—in any place ripe for inquiry and experimentation, including clinics, environmental and field-study sites, online forums, libraries, museums, theaters, and places of civic engagement, among many others.

Progressive Change

We are not afraid to take thoughtful risks in the pursuit of our shared goals.

Stewardship of Our Planet

We recognize that the health of individuals, communities, and the natural environment is essential to the survival of the planet and its inhabitants and to a well-functioning society.