Neumann University

Here is our first perspective on what it means to be Franciscan:

In a letter to the Neumann University community on June 1, 2020, President Chris Domes stated: “The Franciscan mission of Neumann University is needed now more than ever. We have the responsibility and opportunity to deliver this mission through our RISES values with purpose and zeal.” In the University Vision statement, we proclaim that “Neumann RISES on the values of Reverence, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Stewardship and lives the actions these values inspire.” At Neumann, our RISES values challenge us to:

· Reverence each person as a brother or sister with dignity, value and worth

· Live and act with Integrity, acting fairly, ethically, and honestly

· Serve with humility, compassion, and love by challenging unjust structures and working for social transformation

· Embrace Excellence by performing to the best of our ability the responsibilities entrusted to us

· Exercise Stewardship of all the gifts we have received with special care for the Earth, our common home.

From the moment students step onto our campus, they are literally surrounded by reminders of the RISES values. According to one student, “Neumann is not just all talk, they really do live the RISES values every day and their hope is that every individual student will live these values.” Another student adds that “RISES has become such a big part of my life and I will carry it with me no matter what job field I get into. It means living life to the fullest, taking things in stride, and learning from my mistakes. RISES is something that has helped shape me to become the compassionate, selfless person I am today.”

Many thanks to those at Neumann University who wrote this reflection. We will continue with a new perspective tomorrow. Have a wonderful Saturday!