The core values on which the University of Mary is built are reflected in the
Rule of Benedict, a popular and still influential book of precepts written by St. Benedict of Nursia more than 1,500 years ago.
These are values that have powerful and practical applications in personal and professional growth and development.
They are a guide to recognizing and understanding responsibility to ourselves, the community and the Creator.
They serve as a solid foundation for leadership development.
What are the values?
- Community
Caring for and supporting one another and being positive, contributing members of our community. (more...)
- Hospitality
Welcoming of others both as individuals and as a community. (more...)
We are intentional in our efforts to provide a place for people to feel accepted and valued as children of God. We believe that in the practice of Christian hospitality, both "host" and "guest" profit and Christ is made present in our interactions with one another.
- Service
Being of service to others through servant-leadership based upon the model of Jesus Christ. (more...)
We believe that service to others benefits those who serve as well as those served. With Jesus Christ as our example and witness, we strive to build up the community as servant-leaders.
- Moderation
Believing in development of the whole person and seeking to practice physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness as individuals. (more...)
We strive for balance and measuredness that avoids excess and reflects our belief that life is integrative.
- Respect for Persons
Recognizing and valuing the unique God-given gifts of each individual. (more...)
We are committed to nurturing and encouraging each person's journey towards wholeness (holiness). We strive to embrace diversity, learn from our differences, and encourage each individual to more fully develop his or her gifts.
- Prayer
Reflecting upon God's presence in our life and asking God to teach us and guide us in all we do. (more...)
We reserve time for individual prayer, and we come together as a community in liturgical celebration and communal prayer.
These values are also embodied in the concept of "servant-leadership," which is an expression of our role as "America's Leadership University."
The concept of servant-leadership
Servant-leadership at the University of Mary is a pattern of living marked by competence in one's chosen profession, courage in making ethical decisions based on Benedictine values, and compassion in serving the needs of others.
In a context of relationship to God, to one another, and to self, we believe that leadership is making a difference for good. Rooted in the Gospel and in the founding vision of the Benedictine Sisters to serve spiritual, intellectual, and cultural needs of others, the model for servant leadership is Jesus Himself.
At the University of Mary, students grow into leadership through service. Learners become leaders in the service of truth.