Ghosted logo on Black Banner

STUDENT SUCCESS SERVICES

Mission-Aligned Benefits

OVERVIEW

Joining a Global Community

Dignity for the human person is an important part of campus life at SFU. Each year the University welcomes students and faculty from across the United States and more than 23 countries.

 

Many of our students also travel abroad as part of their educational experience. We believe that life is made rich by valuing the lives of different individuals, groups, and cultures. Respect, tolerance, and goodwill are the keystones to enjoying the diversity of our world, and we help our students refine these values through curriculum offerings, opportunities to study abroad, on-campus social activities, and other programs.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The Benefits of a Mission Driven Campus

  • An inclusive student body has a positive effect on academic achievement and overall college satisfaction.
  • Different perspectives in higher education helps students to successfully compete in an increasingly global marketplace.
  • Education helps develop important skills, such as flexibility, critical thinking and the ability to work in teams.
  • Students who interact in the classroom with students with varied perspectives are more aware of relevant issues.

WE ARE ALL RED FLASH 

Saint Francis University is committed to protecting and promoting the God-given rights and responsibilities of all members of the university community in accord with Catholic Social Teaching. Born from our Catholic and Franciscan mission, our commitment arises from our aspirations about the community we want to be, the educational environment we hope to provide, and the moral character that we seek to develop in our students. It goes to the heart of our mission, to who we are and to what we want to become. 

 

Human Dignity 

The infinite goodness of God is reflected in beings whom God has created. All human beings, from the moment of their conception until their death, possess an innate and sacred dignity on account of their nature as persons created in the image and likeness of God. The infinite glory of God is also reflected more deeply by the unique gifts which God has given to each person, and which are shown in our differences of age, physical and mental ability, sex, race, ethnicity, vocations, etc. 

 

Community 

Each human person has rights and responsibilities which are grounded in their nature as persons made in the image and likeness of God as well as by their vocation and state in life. Equity ensures that the rights of each member of the SFU community are protected, and that each person has just access to the specific resources that they need to fulfill their responsibilities as members of the SFU community. Together, we pursue the common good – the flourishing of each individual and of the entire community. 

 

Solidarity 

We are called to live in solidarity with all people, which arises from recognizing that the well-being of each person is a concern for us all. Inclusion ensures that each member of our SFU community, with their unique gifts and backgrounds, are welcomed, cherished and supported in accord with the demands of God’s love and justice. Inclusion fosters the peace that results from a working and learning environment that emphasizes our solidarity with one another on a natural, local, and global level.

 

The Office of Student Development

Saint Francis University aims to foster a campus community that upholds the tenets of the University’s Catholic Mission, including equal access and respectful participation for everyone. It seeks to prepare students not only for university life but also for active roles in the global community. We support students' educational and cultural growth through initiatives that promote development and awareness, contributing to their overall success. This office also facilitates dialogue across campus, encouraging diverse viewpoints, and ensuring that all voices are heard as students adapt socially, academically, and psychologically to life at Saint Francis University. The division offers a wide range of programs and activities.  Students are encouraged to participate in programs and activities that promote their development and help them to take their place as world citizens. 

Contact Us

Lynne Banks
Associate Dean of Students / Title IX Coordinator
Division of Student Development
230 Padua Hall
814-472-3002
lbanks@francis.edu

 

Father Stephen Waruszewski, T.O.R.
Director of Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry
St. Francis Hall Rm. 6
814-472-2750
swaruszewski@francis.edu