SWU Student Life: Purpose Statement

The underlying philosophy that governs student life policy at Southern Wesleyan University is based upon the belief that all aspects of a student’s life should be consistent with the Christian mission of the university and the standards for life and living as defined by God’s Word. Effective community life requires a commitment by each individual to respect the policies and regulations adopted to promote positive standards and constructive relationships. Student life policies apply to all aspects of university life and, as such, require that mature self-discipline and judgment be applied to individual behavior or both on and off the campus.

Although it is impossible to create community standards that will be acceptable to everyone, students who enroll at Southern Wesleyan University are expected to abide by and be in full compliance with all adopted regulations as they constitute a framework for positive community life. Student life policies are established to function in the best interest of the entire campus community. We expect SWU community members to be involved in a total learning process that fosters and encourages responsible and mature actions and behaviors.

The goal of the student life staff of Southern Wesleyan University is to challenge and encourage every member of the community to develop the attitude and skills to follow Christ’s greatest commandments. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. Love your neighbor as yourself.” Mark 12:29-31

Each person is challenged to live a life based on a personal relationship with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

We work to accomplish our purpose through the programs and services of athletics, intramurals, residence life, the Health Center/Infirmary, counseling, minority awareness, career planning, leadership development and student activities.

Because we represent a variety of viewpoints about what that life requires and includes, we allow questioning and encourage tolerance. We recognize and value the tension between diversity and unity, between freedom and responsibility, between justice and mercy, between faith and questioning.

Because we value every person, we will seek to know and help each one find a place of acceptance and involvement. We believe we are to be competent models in the use of our gifts and the acknowledgment of our weaknesses.

We desire that every student develop the conflict-resolution, self-management, and leadership skills to effectively live in the church, and the local and world communities. We desire that each student develop the integrity and the love of self and others to be redeeming influences in human interactions and relationships.

We desire to create a community of love and ministry balancing affirmation and challenge, stability and exploration, security and adventure.