Saint Leo Core Values: A Student’s Guide

Saint Leo University, deeply rooted in Benedictine tradition, emphasizes the importance of community; this focus shapes the student experience significantly. The university’s commitment to these principles influences academic integrity, promoting ethical behavior and responsibility among the student body. These guiding principles, central to the university’s identity, are outlined in the Saint Leo Core Values, which serve as a compass for students navigating their academic and personal growth. Furthermore, resources available through the Office of Student Affairs support students in understanding and embodying these principles, reinforcing the significance of core values saint leo in daily life and decision-making.

Understanding Saint Leo University’s Core Values: A Foundation for Excellence

Saint Leo University, an institution steeped in the rich tradition of the Benedictine Order, stands as a beacon of higher education committed to fostering not only intellectual growth but also the holistic development of its students. At the heart of this mission lies a set of Core Values that serve as guiding principles for the entire university community.

These values, deeply rooted in the Benedictine tradition, are not mere words on a page; they are the very essence of what it means to be a part of the Saint Leo family.

This article serves as a compass, guiding you through the significance of these Core Values. It delves into their meaning and application within the university environment, equipping every student, faculty, staff, and administrator with the knowledge to embody these principles in their daily lives.

Saint Leo University: Mission and Benedictine Heritage

Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University has a long and storied history shaped by the Benedictine monks of Saint Leo Abbey. The University’s mission is to provide a values-centered education that develops students intellectually, spiritually, and personally.

This mission is directly inspired by the teachings of Saint Benedict of Nursia, whose Rule emphasizes prayer, work, community, and hospitality.

The Benedictine tradition provides a moral and spiritual compass, grounding the University in principles of respect, service, and ethical conduct. This heritage shapes the learning environment, cultivating a community that values personal growth and social responsibility.

The Significance of Core Values

The Core Values of Saint Leo University are the cornerstone of its unique identity. They define the standards to which all members of the university community are expected to adhere.

These values, namely Excellence, Respect, Community, Personal Development, Responsible Stewardship, and Integrity, influence decision-making at all levels of the university, from the classroom to the boardroom.

They create a shared understanding of what it means to be a Saint Leo Lion and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. By embracing these values, the University aims to create a transformative learning environment where individuals can thrive and contribute to the betterment of society.

A Guide to Application

This article aims to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application of the Core Values. It will explore the meaning of each value, providing concrete examples of how they can be lived out in various aspects of university life.

Whether you are a student navigating your academic journey, a faculty member shaping young minds, or a staff member supporting the university’s operations, this guide offers insights into how to embrace these values and contribute to the Saint Leo legacy.

By understanding and applying these Core Values, we can collectively create a vibrant and ethical community that upholds the University’s mission and prepares future generations for success. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to live lives of purpose, service, and integrity, reflecting the true spirit of Saint Leo University.

The Benedictine Roots: Shaping Saint Leo University’s Core Values

Understanding Saint Leo University’s Core Values requires a journey back in time, to the very foundations upon which the institution was built. These values are not arbitrary; they are deeply rooted in the Benedictine tradition, a way of life that has shaped communities and individuals for centuries.

Exploring this heritage allows us to appreciate the profound influence of Saint Benedict of Nursia, Abbot Isaac Burns Davis, and the broader Catholic Intellectual Tradition on the university’s ethos.

Saint Benedict and the Benedictine Values

Saint Benedict of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism, established a rule of life that has resonated through the ages. His emphasis on prayer, work, community, and hospitality forms the bedrock of Benedictine spirituality.

These principles are not merely historical relics; they are living ideals that continue to inform the Saint Leo University experience. Benedict’s Rule provides a framework for fostering personal growth, building strong communities, and engaging with the world in a meaningful way.

The Benedictine values of stability, obedience, and conversion of life also translate into the university’s commitment to providing a consistent and supportive environment, encouraging responsible citizenship, and promoting lifelong learning.

Abbot Isaac Burns Davis and the Benedictine Spirit

Abbot Isaac Burns Davis, a key figure in Saint Leo University’s history, played a crucial role in establishing the Benedictine spirit on campus.

His vision and leadership helped to create an institution that not only valued academic excellence but also prioritized the spiritual and moral development of its students.

Abbot Isaac’s dedication to the Benedictine tradition ensured that Saint Leo University would be a place where students could learn, grow, and discover their purpose in life, guided by the principles of faith, reason, and service. He instilled the importance of "ora et labora", prayer and work, and promoted a culture of respect, discipline, and intellectual rigor.

Connection to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition

Saint Leo University’s Benedictine heritage is inextricably linked to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. This rich tradition, spanning centuries, emphasizes the harmony between faith and reason, the pursuit of truth, and the importance of engaging with the world in a thoughtful and critical way.

The Catholic Intellectual Tradition encourages students to explore the great questions of human existence, to grapple with complex ethical dilemmas, and to contribute to the common good.

This tradition emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, moral reasoning, and a commitment to social justice.

Saint Leo University is committed to creating a vibrant intellectual community where students and faculty can engage in open dialogue, pursue knowledge, and live out their faith in service to others.

By embracing its Benedictine roots and drawing upon the wisdom of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, Saint Leo University provides its students with a unique and transformative educational experience, one that prepares them to be ethical leaders, responsible citizens, and compassionate members of society.

Key Stakeholders: Embracing the Core Values

Understanding Saint Leo University’s commitment to its Core Values requires recognizing the diverse roles played by its various stakeholders. From students to trustees, each member of the university community contributes to the embodiment and promotion of these values. This section explores how each stakeholder group uniquely upholds the Saint Leo legacy.

Saint Leo University Students: Implementers of the Core Values

Students are at the heart of Saint Leo University, serving as the primary implementers of the Core Values. Their daily interactions, academic pursuits, and extracurricular activities offer countless opportunities to demonstrate excellence, respect, and integrity.

Whether participating in service projects, engaging in thoughtful discussions, or upholding academic honesty, students actively shape the university’s culture through their actions. Their commitment to personal development and responsible stewardship ensures a vibrant and ethical campus environment.

Saint Leo University Faculty: Integrating Core Values into Classrooms

Faculty members play a crucial role in integrating the Core Values into the classroom experience. They not only impart knowledge but also model ethical behavior, foster respectful dialogue, and encourage critical thinking.

By designing curricula that promote intellectual curiosity and social responsibility, faculty members empower students to become engaged citizens. Furthermore, their commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship sets a high standard for the entire university community.

Saint Leo University Staff/Administration: Embodying and Promoting Core Values

The staff and administration are essential in embodying and promoting the Core Values across all aspects of university operations. From admissions to student affairs, these individuals ensure that every interaction reflects the university’s commitment to respect, community, and personal development.

Their dedication to providing efficient and ethical services creates a supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff alike. By upholding the highest standards of integrity and responsible stewardship, they safeguard the university’s reputation and resources.

University President: Champion of the Core Values

The University President serves as the foremost champion of the Core Values, providing leadership and vision that inspires the entire community. Through speeches, policies, and personal example, the President articulates the importance of these values in shaping the university’s identity and mission.

The President’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, respect, and integrity sets the tone for all members of the Saint Leo University family. Their guidance ensures that the Core Values remain central to the university’s strategic priorities and daily operations.

University Trustees: Guardians of the Mission and Values

The University Trustees act as guardians of the mission and values, ensuring that the university remains true to its Benedictine heritage. They provide oversight and guidance on matters of governance, finance, and strategic planning, always with an eye toward upholding the Core Values.

Their commitment to responsible stewardship and ethical decision-making safeguards the university’s long-term sustainability and reputation. By holding the university accountable to its mission, they ensure that Saint Leo remains a beacon of Benedictine values for generations to come.

Benedictine Monastic Community at Saint Leo Abbey: Keepers of Tradition

The Benedictine Monastic Community at Saint Leo Abbey serves as the keepers of tradition, preserving the spiritual and intellectual heritage that informs the university’s Core Values. Their presence on campus provides a constant reminder of the Benedictine principles of prayer, work, and community.

Through their example of humility, hospitality, and service, the monks inspire all members of the university community to live out the Core Values in their daily lives. Their ongoing commitment to Saint Leo University ensures the perpetuation of the Benedictine spirit.

Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Ministry, Student Activities Board (SAB): Student Organizations Embodying Core Values

Student organizations, such as the Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Ministry, and Student Activities Board (SAB), play a vital role in embodying the Core Values within the student body. These groups provide opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, engage in service projects, and build community.

By organizing events and initiatives that promote respect, personal development, and social responsibility, these organizations help to create a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. Their efforts ensure that the Core Values are not just words on a page but are actively lived out by students in their daily lives.

Defining the Core Values: Principles and Applications

Understanding Saint Leo University’s commitment to its Core Values requires recognizing the diverse roles played by its various stakeholders. From students to trustees, each member of the university community contributes to the embodiment and promotion of these values. This section explores how each stakeholder puts the core values in action. Delving into the nuances of these values, we will explore their practical applications within the university setting, and highlight how each is more than just words on paper, but are principles to be followed.

Excellence: Striving for the Highest Standards

Excellence at Saint Leo University transcends mere academic achievement. It embodies a continuous pursuit of the highest standards in all facets of university life.

This commitment necessitates a robust academic environment characterized by rigorous coursework and dedicated faculty. Quality of services, from administrative support to technological infrastructure, plays a crucial role in fostering an environment conducive to excellence. Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of achieving and maintaining excellence, prompting the university to constantly evaluate and enhance its programs and processes.

Respect: Valuing the Dignity of Each Individual

Respect at Saint Leo is a deeply held belief that every member of the university community deserves to be treated with dignity and consideration. This principle emphasizes the inherent worth of each individual, regardless of background, belief, or perspective.

Fostering an inclusive environment is paramount. It requires creating spaces and opportunities where all members feel welcome, supported, and valued. Open dialogue is essential for cultivating respect, encouraging thoughtful conversations and the respectful exchange of ideas. Valuing diverse perspectives enriches the university community, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of different viewpoints and experiences.

Community: Fostering a Sense of Belonging

At Saint Leo University, community is more than just a geographical location; it is a feeling of connectedness and shared purpose. Building a strong sense of belonging is key to cultivating a thriving university environment.

This is achieved through collaborative projects that bring students, faculty, and staff together to work towards common goals. Social events provide opportunities for members to connect with one another on a personal level and nurture relationships. Supportive networks, such as mentorship programs and student organizations, provide the resources and encouragement needed to succeed.

Personal Development: Encouraging Intellectual and Emotional Growth

Personal Development at Saint Leo University is a lifelong process of growth, learning, and self-discovery. It encompasses both intellectual and emotional dimensions, preparing students for lives of purpose and fulfillment.

Mentorship programs offer guidance and support from experienced faculty and staff, assisting students in navigating their academic and personal journeys. Wellness initiatives promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of students, fostering a holistic approach to personal development. Leadership training programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become effective leaders in their communities and professions.

Responsible Stewardship: Caring for Resources and Promoting Sustainability

Responsible Stewardship reflects the university’s commitment to ethical resource management and environmental consciousness. This value is deeply rooted in the Benedictine tradition of caring for the earth and its resources for future generations.

Environmental initiatives, such as recycling programs and energy conservation efforts, demonstrate the university’s dedication to sustainability. Efficient resource management ensures that resources are used wisely and effectively. Ethical investments align the university’s financial practices with its values, supporting socially responsible initiatives.

Integrity: Demonstrating Honesty and Ethical Conduct

Integrity is the bedrock of trust and credibility within the Saint Leo University community. It requires honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical behavior in all aspects of university life.

Academic honesty is essential for maintaining the integrity of the learning environment, promoting ethical research and scholarship. Transparency in decision-making builds trust and accountability, ensuring that the university operates with openness and fairness. Ethical behavior, guided by a strong moral compass, is expected of all members of the university community.

Core Values in Action: Campus Life and Academics

Understanding Saint Leo University’s commitment to its Core Values requires recognizing the diverse roles played by its various stakeholders. From students to trustees, each member of the university community contributes to the embodiment and promotion of these values. This section explores how these Core Values manifest within the daily life of the university, shaping experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

It examines their presence in residence halls, student activities, academic settings, university events, and initiatives centered on leadership, ethics, and social responsibility. Through concrete examples, we will explore how the university’s guiding principles are woven into the fabric of the Saint Leo experience.

Core Values in Residence Halls and Student Activities

Residence halls and student activity centers are vital spaces where the Core Values of Saint Leo University are actively cultivated. Respect is fostered through community living, where students learn to appreciate diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Community thrives as students forge lasting bonds, supported by resident assistants and hall directors who model inclusivity and collaboration.

The Personal Development of students is supported by creating a safe and engaging environment where they feel empowered to grow and explore their potential. Integrity becomes central to daily interactions, with hall guidelines and community standards designed to promote ethical behavior. Excellence is seen through the support services offered within the halls to promote academic success.

Student Activity Centers act as hubs for community engagement, with programming designed to promote interaction, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging. Responsible Stewardship is modeled through the conservation of resources and the promotion of environmentally conscious practices within these spaces.

Shaping the Academic Environment: The Core Values in Classrooms

In the classroom, the Core Values provide the foundation for a transformative learning experience. Excellence in teaching and scholarship is paramount, with faculty members committed to providing rigorous and engaging academic programs. Respect for diverse perspectives is fostered through open discussions and the encouragement of critical thinking.

Personal Development is supported by faculty who act as mentors, guiding students towards their intellectual and professional goals. Integrity is upheld through academic honesty policies and a commitment to ethical conduct in research and scholarship. Community is built through collaborative projects and a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to share their ideas.

Responsible Stewardship is promoted through the integration of sustainability principles into the curriculum and the encouragement of responsible resource management in research activities.

Integrating Benedictine Values into the Curriculum

Faculty actively weave Saint Leo’s Benedictine values into the very structure of the courses they teach. Service learning projects demonstrate the value of community, and assignments that challenge students to confront real-world ethical dilemmas underscore the commitment to integrity.

This conscious integration ensures that students not only learn academic content but also grapple with the broader implications of knowledge and their roles as responsible members of society. The emphasis on personal development encourages students to see education as a lifelong journey.

University Events: Reflecting Core Values

University events such as Convocation and Commencement serve as visible embodiments of Saint Leo’s Core Values. Convocation, marking the beginning of the academic year, emphasizes the Community and shared purpose that unites the university. The President and faculty reiterate the importance of Excellence in academics and personal growth.

Commencement celebrates the Personal Development of graduates and their achievements, while reaffirming the university’s commitment to Integrity and Responsible Stewardship as graduates embark on their professional journeys. These events are designed to inspire and instill a sense of pride in the Saint Leo community.

Leadership and Service: Promoting Core Values

Leadership and service initiatives at Saint Leo University provide students with opportunities to live out the Core Values in meaningful ways. Students engage in community service projects that address social needs and promote Responsible Stewardship. Leadership programs instill Integrity and ethical decision-making, empowering students to become responsible leaders.

Through these initiatives, students develop a deeper understanding of the Core Values and their practical applications in the world. Personal Development is fostered through reflection on service experiences and the development of leadership skills. They practice active citizenship, contributing to the well-being of both the local and global community.

Ethical Decision-Making and Social Responsibility

Saint Leo University promotes ethical decision-making and social responsibility across all aspects of campus life. Students are encouraged to consider the ethical implications of their actions and to make decisions that align with the Core Values. The university provides resources and training to support ethical decision-making, fostering a culture of Integrity and accountability.

Through community engagement initiatives and service-learning projects, students are encouraged to address social issues and promote Responsible Stewardship. By fostering a commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility, Saint Leo University prepares graduates to become responsible and engaged citizens.

Resources for Living the Core Values

Understanding Saint Leo University’s commitment to its Core Values requires recognizing the diverse roles played by its various stakeholders. From students to trustees, each member of the university community contributes to the embodiment and promotion of these values. This section explores how these values are further supported through tangible resources available to the Saint Leo community, ensuring their continued integration into the daily life of the institution.

The University Mission Statement: A Guiding Compass

The Saint Leo University Mission Statement serves as the bedrock upon which all university activities are founded. It is not merely a symbolic document; it’s a living articulation of the institution’s purpose, deeply intertwined with the Core Values.

This statement provides clear direction for faculty, staff, and students, ensuring that their work and studies align with the university’s foundational principles. It emphasizes a commitment to both academic excellence and the development of ethical, responsible individuals prepared to contribute to the global community.

Strategic Plan: Charting a Course Aligned with Values

The University’s Strategic Plan translates the Mission Statement into actionable goals. It outlines the specific steps the university will take to achieve its long-term objectives, with the Core Values serving as a moral compass throughout the planning and execution phases.

This alignment ensures that strategic initiatives are not only effective but also ethically sound, reflecting the university’s commitment to integrity and responsible stewardship. The Strategic Plan provides a framework for continuous improvement, guided by the principles that define Saint Leo University.

Student Handbook: A Code of Conduct Rooted in Values

The Student Handbook sets forth the policies, regulations, and expectations for student conduct at Saint Leo University. More than a mere list of rules, it reflects the Core Values in its emphasis on respect, community, and personal development.

The handbook articulates the university’s commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. It also highlights the importance of integrity and responsible stewardship in students’ daily interactions within the university community.

University Website: A Digital Gateway to Understanding

The Saint Leo University website serves as a central hub for information about the institution, its programs, and its values. Dedicated sections highlight each Core Value, offering definitions, examples, and resources to promote understanding and application.

The website acts as a public face for the university’s commitment, inviting prospective students, faculty, and staff to learn about the values that underpin the Saint Leo experience. It also provides current members of the community with ongoing access to information and support for living out the Core Values.

Core Curriculum: Weaving Values into Education

The Core Curriculum at Saint Leo University is designed to provide students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, while also instilling the Core Values. Coursework is intentionally designed to encourage critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a commitment to social responsibility.

Through the Core Curriculum, students are challenged to examine their own values, engage with diverse perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. This integration ensures that the Core Values are not simply abstract concepts but rather, active principles that shape students’ intellectual and personal growth.

So, that’s a quick look at the Saint Leo core values! Hopefully, this helps you navigate your time here. Embrace these principles—they’re more than just words; they’re the foundation of what makes Saint Leo, well, Saint Leo. Understanding these core values Saint Leo are all about can really enrich your experience and help you make the most of everything this community has to offer. Good luck!