Inauguration: The Four Pillars
Founded by Dominic de Guzman in the 13th century, the Order of Preachers was a bold experiment that integrated contemplation and rigorous study with an itinerant life of teaching and preaching. Dominic wanted the order to serve from the heart of the church and to offer a response to the needs of the world out of an active dialogue with the best learning of the time. The unique gift—or charism—of the now global Dominican family is a passion for truth, a passion pursued through communal study and contemplation and expressed in works of preaching and teaching. In more recent times, the foundational and sustaining elements of Dominican life and mission have been named as prayer, study, community, and service and justice.
As we inaugurate our 11th president, Dr. Glena G. Temple, these pillars continue as the foundational strengths, distinctions, and practices that will propel us into the second centenary of mission.
Prayer
In private contemplation and communal worship, we meet the mystery and are nourished by the friendship of God.
Study
A lifelong commitment to study—through every discipline and subject--is both a distinctive feature of Dominican life, and the essential purpose of the university.
Community
The University motto of Caritas Veritas, meaning Love and Truth, is a living reality on a campus where collegiality, collaboration and respect define relationships among faculty, students and staff members.
Service and Justice
Education in the Dominican tradition is meant to respond to the needs and address the injustices of the time in order to promote the full flourishing every human person, especially the most vulnerable.