Building Community at St. Olaf: Aspirational values to guide us through difficult discussions
Broadening our Perspectives with Curiosity
At St. Olaf, we believe that curiosity opens us up to growth and new opportunities. We encourage perspective-taking, imagination, agility, and adaptability in all facets of the college experience. We believe free inquiry and openness are essential habits of mind for all solution-seekers. ← Back
Cultivating Belonging in an Inclusive Community
At St. Olaf, we embrace difference and authenticity as a source of strength. We believe in fostering meaningful connections, caring for each other, and deepening our empathy. We strive for an inclusive community that belongs to every student, faculty member, staff member and alum, and it is our shared responsibility to cultivate it. ← Back
Finding Courage in Challenging Moments
At St. Olaf, we believe that courage is being bold in the face of discomfort and vulnerable to critique. Courageous conversations must strike a balance between affirming our deeply held convictions while also acknowledging our perspectives might be limited. We aspire for truth, care, humility, and accountability in all our community interactions. ← Back
Responding with Grace to Each Other
At St Olaf, we recognize that many — often those in positions of power — have appealed to grace to exempt themselves from personal responsibility. The value of grace should be extended to all as often as it is expected, and grounded in the tenets of mutual respect and ethical care. The notion of grace is at the heart of many of our traditions and encourages us to respond to others with gratitude, generosity, forgiveness, and respect. For these reasons, we aspire to treat ourselves and each other with grace. ← Back