Characteristics of Jesuit Education

Jesuit education emphasizes the view that each person is a unique creation of God. Cura Personalis (meaning 'care for the whole self' in Latin) is demonstrated by personal attention in the classroom, a deep respect for diversity and difference and an emphasis on holistic care for the mind, body and spirit.

A foundational value of Jesuit education is the practice of reflection. Students are invited to pause to consider the world around them and their place within it before making decisions. This includes challenging the status quo, acknowledging biases and accepting responsibility for actions.

Students work together for the greater good. They develop relationships with their surrounding communities and share their talents and skills to help and serve others. This value is practiced through community engaged learning, where students work with community members to come up with innovative solutions.

A commitment to the concept of Magis (Latin for 'more') is a hallmark of Jesuit education. It challenges students to go beyond what is expected, interacting with the world with generosity, excellence and empathy. Magis is modeled by personal accountability and high expectations of achievement.

Jesuit education cultivates critical awareness of social and personal evil, but points out that God's love is more powerful. This value is illustrated through community service programs, service learning semesters, immersion experiences and various volunteer opportunities for students.

Discernment encourages students to be open to God's spirit as they make decisions and take actions that contribute to the greater good. Discernment is practiced through prayer, reflection, consultation with others and considering the full impact of actions from diverse angles.

A Jesuit education is one grounded in the presence of God, and encompasses imagination, emotion and intellect. The Jesuit vision encourages students to seek the divine in all things-in all peoples and cultures, in all areas of study and learning and in every human experience