Mission of Saint John’s University

Grounded in Catholic and Benedictine values and tradition, Saint John’s University provides young men a distinctive residential liberal arts education, preparing them to reach their full potential and instilling in them the values and aspiration to lead lives of significance and principled achievement.  

Vision for the College of Arts and Sciences 

Saint John’s University seeks to be one of the nation’s great Catholic liberal arts colleges by providing the best holistic learning experience for men in the country.   

We will inspire undergraduate men to new heights of intellectual, spiritual, physical and social development that is informed by ethical reflection and grounded in our Catholic and Benedictine tradition.

The School of Theology and the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library have their own separate vision statements.

Strategic Directions 2020

Liberal Arts for Life

The liberal arts experience at Saint John’s University will be characterized by an innovative and integrative curriculum that provides our students with the knowledge, skills, experiences and values to meet their professional and personal goals and shape their civic identity.

Holistic and Transformational Development of Men

Saint John’s University will advance and extend the benefits of a residential, liberal arts experience, challenging and supporting young men to achieve their full potential and providing the comprehensive support and services they need to lead lives of meaning and success.

Inclusive & Engaging Catholic & Benedictine Experience

Saint John’s University will extend our Catholic and Benedictine values to create a vibrant and lived community experience. We will preserve and embed the Benedictine values of our sponsoring communities.

Shared Future, Sustainable Future

The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University will together develop and implement an economic model that allows us to meet and sustain high standards of excellence, value, affordability and efficiency.

Values 

Dedicated to the pursuit of understanding, wisdom, and the common good, Saint John’s University is committed to the following values: 

• Community built upon relationships of hospitality, respect, cooperation, and challenge.
• Openness to learning, inquiry, beauty, truth, and difference.
• Respect for persons, tradition, creativity, experience, faith, reason, and religious practice.
• Depth in understanding, relationships, faith, and spirituality.
• Sacredness of God, being, truth, place, nature, and knowledge.
• Passion for excellence, truth, learning, beauty, love, and personal growth.