Statement of Institutional Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

Southwest Minnesota State University prepares students to meet the complex challenges of this century as engaged citizens in their local and global communities. Our comprehensive degree programs, taught in the liberal arts tradition, are dedicated to connecting students’ academic and practical professional development experiences in southwestern Minnesota to the wider world.

Vision

Southwest Minnesota State University is a university of choice.

Core Values:

SMSU upholds core values of transformational learning centered on excellence, civic and community engagement, diversity and global awareness, and environmental issues of sustainability and stewardship:

Excellence and Innovation

SMSU faculty and staff create and support a high-quality student-centered learning environment that

• prepares students to meet the complex challenges of this century as engaged citizens in their local and global communities;
• provides students with the skills and knowledge to be lifelong learners

Civic and Community Engagement

SMSU faculty and staff are engaged in and support activities that

• promote civic engagement opportunities that enhance SMSU's reputation as a locally, regionally, and globally-engaged institution
• build mutually beneficial partnerships across our region and state
• provide rich opportunities for learning that go beyond the traditional classroom and lab settings

Diversity and Global Awareness

SMSU faculty and staff contribute to creating an environment that celebrates the diverse and inclusive nature of the SMSU campus community as they

• foster cultural understanding and interactions and a welcoming and accessible campus environment for all groups
• provide a supportive environment for intellectual expression and civil communication by all groups

Environment, Stewardship, and Sustainability

SMSU faculty and staff are committed to being responsible stewards of our environmental and fiscal resources who

• facilitate a safe, accessible campus
• foster actions, programs, and scholarship that will lead to a sustainable future

The vision statement and core values recognize the University's emphasis on attention to student needs, promoting respect for diverse voices, and encouraging sustainable actions.

Further, the University mission aligns with its governing system's mission and strategic priorities. The Minnesota State System mission is "The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system of distinct and collaborative institutions offers higher education that meets the personal and career goals of a wide range of individual learners, enhances the quality of life for all Minnesotans and sustains vibrant economies throughout the state."