The Mission of the McCarthy Center

To cultivate the habit of promoting the common good through an integrative environment for learning.

To promote the value of politics; our shared identity as citizens; our engagement in public work.

The Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement introduces students to the methods through which law and policy are established.

The intellectual foundation of the McCarthy Center is built on the Benedictine values of stewardship, stability, justice, moderation and hospitality. Through involvement in organizations—on campus, in surrounding cities and towns, nationally, and abroad—students gain understanding of how organizations might become more effective in meeting the needs of the constituencies that they serve.

Students and faculty will develop awareness of improvements that can be made in the ways that people and institutions interact through research, community service, internships, and symposia. This awareness will lead directly to the formulation of strategies, practices and policies to sustain the betterment of communities and the lives of their
members.

The Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement will:

• Foster student service and learning in local to international arenas
• Attract influential leaders in public affairs and policy as guest lecturers and visiting scholars
• Establish scholarships for students who are passionate and committed to a life of public service
• Prepare students for professional careers in public policy as well as practicing effective citizenship
• Expand faculty research in areas affecting public policy
• Provide forums for discussion of current affairs
• Create an entity that intentionally enhances collaboration among faculty, the monasteries, staff, and students for community improvement and leadership development