Valparaiso University

**Just call us “Valpo”** If you’ve heard of Valparaiso University you’re probably on a first-name basis with us. Valpo. And we like it that way. That’s because warm and friendly is our thing. Founded in 1859, Valpo is an independent Lutheran university with a reputation for not only incredible academics, but a bright, energetic spirit that attracts students that truly want to make a difference in this world. **Mission Values** > *“Valparaiso University, a community of learning dedicated to excellence and grounded in the Lutheran tradition of scholarship, freedom, and faith, prepares students to lead and serve in both church and society.*“ > —Valparaiso University Mission Statement ****Valparaiso University’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement**** Valparaiso University is a welcoming community, grounded in the Lutheran tradition, built on values of mutual respect, positive regard, freedom, and reliant on grace. We strive to boldly include all individuals and groups who contribute to the life of our campus in a mutually beneficial way. Difference is a strength and reason for celebration, and we affirm that we are most inclusive when we bring groups together to make decisions in collaborative, equitable ways. Our values do not support language or behavior that demeans members of our campus based on age, appearance, ethnicity, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, biological sex, disabilities (visible and invisible), ideological/political positions, intellectual perspective, socio-economic status, immigration status, veteran status, and national or regional origin. Actions and behaviors based on positions or perspectives that inherently marginalize, oppress, or deny full dignity to all are not tolerated. As such, we will consistently and vigilantly assess our academic and co-curricular offerings and our admissions, hiring, and promotion policies in reflection of these values. **Embracing the Journey** The freedom to pursue truth wherever it leads is at the heart of Valpo’s sense of community, uniting its academic and spiritual missions. The university aims to foster in its students a lifelong commitment to this search for truth, encouraging the development of a sense of personal vocation as well as the intellectual and professional skills needed to pursue it. An active, inclusive community and an accomplished faculty prepare Valpo graduates to choose and navigate their own paths through life. **Strengthening, Serving, and Leading Communities** Life at Valpo offers students a model of community participation, personal responsibility, and respectful concern for others. - The student-initiated [honor system](https://www.valpo.edu/student/honorcouncil/index.php) relies on each student to maintain standards of academic integrity. - A [collaborative system of university governance](https://www.valpo.edu/about/leadership/) assigns students considerable responsibility for residential and social life. - The [Office of Volunteer Programs](https://www.valpo.edu/volunteer/) and the Community Research and Service Center exemplify a commitment to learning through service that results in Valpo students’ logging more than 247,000 hours of community outreach and service-learning each academic year. - Extensive [Study Abroad programs](https://www.valpo.edu/studyabroad/) and a commitment to institutional diversity deepen students’ understanding of the world’s variety of cultural and religious traditions. Guided by a strong sense of ethics and informed by a broad understanding of the scientific, religious, and cultural heritage of human society, Valpo alumni have assumed leadership roles in their communities, churches, social institutions, the nation, and the world.