Philosophy of Community

An important part of residence hall and university apartment living is feeling a part of a close-knit community while also becoming a part of a larger university community. The residential living experience is designed to foster student growth in interpersonal interaction and communication. To that end, the residential experience develops students' interpersonal, leadership, and problem-solving skills via community engagement.

Community Engagement is understood as the ability to recognize the impact of personal behaviors on both oneself and others, relate to individuals with different identities than oneself, and choose methods of conflict resolution that respect the dignity of oneself and others.

To foster community engagement, the residential living experience focuses on the cultivation of interdependent relationships, developing in students the interpersonal, emotional, and confrontation skills associated with generating respectful interactions that are required of actively engaged community members. Further, the programs and procedures of the residential living experience reflect the university’s desire to be faithful to its Catholic, Jesuit heritage and commitments and to foster an atmosphere that promotes the academic, spiritual, social, physical, and personal growth of students.

In an effort to cultivate student growth and development, the residential living experience provides the following resources and opportunities: professional, full-time live-in staff; central-office staff; live-in Hall Ministers; live-in, student paraprofessional staff; community councils; living-learning communities; educational, social, spiritual, and service programs; and, educational conduct hearings. Residents are encouraged to contribute to their living communities through active participation in leadership councils, community meetings, and activities and events.

To provide a foundation for community engagement and address students’ basic needs, the residential living experience includes well maintained facilities and the appropriate technological resources.