Inclusive Excellence

Statement of Purpose

The Office of Inclusive Excellence at St. Mary’s University practices inclusive excellence in support of St. Mary’s mission as a Catholic Marianist institution. Our focus is preparing students, and supporting faculty and staff to engage in an ever-changing global society as ethical leaders and global citizens, who value justice and peace. 

Providing Grace and Love

Every human being is created in Imago Dei, in the image and likeness of God (Gen. 1:26),  sharing in the same dignity and expressing God’s creative power in their uniqueness.

• _{Hymn by Jesse and Jennah Manibusan.
  Spirit & Song®, a division of OCP.}

  “All Are Welcome, All Belong”

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  Here at St. Mary’s University “Inclusive Excellence” means that we practice ways in which all members of our community feel welcomed, valued and experience a sense of belonging.

Made in the Image of God

Inclusive Excellence at St. Mary’s University

Here at St. Mary’s Inclusive Excellence means understanding that we all were created in God’s image with our own unique identities and that as children of God we all deserve dignity, respect and love. With this Scripture-based information, the office of Inclusive Excellence proposes the following meaning for diversity, inclusion, equity and equality.

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  Diversity

  Diversity means bringing all of God’s children together in their own unique and authentic identities.

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  Inclusion

  Inclusion means valuing all of God’s children in their unique identity.

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  Equity

  Equity means understanding that we are fallible human beings and because of this, sometimes we fail to treat each other with the respect, dignity and understanding that God commands (Matthew 22:39).

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  Equality

  Equality is making sure that all of God’s children are given equal opportunities to be successful to fulfill our God-given life’s purpose.