- RESOURCES FOR:
- StudentsParentsFaculty/StaffCommunityAlumni
- MISSION, VISION, & CORE VALUES
Throughout the 2008-2009 academic year, many of you graciously gave of your time to take part in the visioning process to help determine the “most desired future” for Valparaiso University. Once again, I thank you for your participation and for caring so deeply about Valpo’s future.
What you will find here are the results of your hard work. In addition to our mission statement, which remains unchanged, you will find the overarching vision statement, nine well-defined area vision statements, and a set of core values, both academic and communal.
The mission, vision and core values, which were adopted by the Board of Directors in July 2009, will help the University prepare for its next strategic plan. That process is now under way, with large-scale task forces of the Strategic Planning Committee working to develop a set of goals and objectives that will enhance the compelling educational experience at Valpo, ensure future success for the campus and community, and advance the University as a place of belonging.
These are exciting times in the life of Valparaiso University. I look forward to sharing more information with you as we continue to determine the future of this great institution.
Blessings,
Mark A. Heckler,
PresidentMission Statement
Valparaiso University, a community of learning dedicated to excellence and grounded in the Lutheran tradition of scholarship, freedom, and faith, prepares students to lead and serve in both church and society.
Vision Statement
Valparaiso University will be renowned worldwide for preparing women and men who are highly sought for their knowledge, character, integrity, and wisdom.
Area Vision Statements
Academic Excellence
Valparaiso University will provide an intellectually rigorous, innovative education that is grounded in the arts and sciences and that integrates liberal education and professional studies.Lutheran Leadership
Valparaiso University will be a distinguished Lutheran community of learning constituted by people of many and various beliefs and backgrounds in dialogue with one another in common pursuit of truth.Student Experience
Valparaiso University will be a vibrant community that integrates learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom so its students build enduring friendships and capacities for lifelong learning, leadership, and service.Diversity and Inclusion
Valparaiso University will be a diverse community, which includes and purposefully supports diversity in all aspects of university life and beyond.Internationalization
Valparaiso University will be acclaimed for the vitality of its international programs, which empower both U.S. and international students to lead and thrive in a global community.Faculty/Staff
Valparaiso University will create a collegial environment that fosters the personal and professional development of its faculty and staff, supporting creativity, innovation, research, and scholarship.Regional Engagement
Valparaiso University will seize and create opportunities for service and leadership, engaging the regional community in activities and initiatives that enrich its social and cultural environment and that reflect the University's crucial role in economic development.Economic Vitality
Valparaiso University will have a successful business model that consistently generates sufficient annual revenue to support a dynamic learning and social environment and provides opportunities for strategic investment and innovation in those programs that will have a vital impact on students and society.Engaged Alumni
Valparaiso University will foster life-long engagement with its alumni that encourages communication and active involvement in a mutually beneficial and enduring relationship.Core Values
Academic Values
Excellence in teaching
Encouragement of a questioning spirit through freedom of thought and expression
Experiential and integrated teaching and learning
Close relationship among scholarship, research, teaching, and learning
Resourcefulness in seizing new curricular and learning opportunitiesCommunal Values
Integration of faith and reason
Importance of study within a living/learning community
Concurrent cultivation of intellectual, moral, and spiritual virtues
Close interaction among students, faculty, and staff
Education for people at all stages of their lives
Environmental stewardship
Widest possible economic accessibility for students to the university
Collaboration and transparency in university governance