Eastern Mennonite University Releases Revised Values Statement

Eastern Mennonite University has unveiled a revised values statement following a six-month review process. The updated statement reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, peace and justice, and active faith, all shaped by Anabaptist-Mennonite beliefs and practices.

The new values statement emphasizes academic excellence as a core priority, with a focus on equitable and engaged teaching that inspires curiosity, creativity, and academic achievement. It also highlights the university’s role as a leader in peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and restorative justice, with a commitment to intercultural understanding, justice, equity, and environmental sustainability.

Peace and justice are central to the revised statement, underscoring the university’s dedication to forming inclusive leaders and valuing diversity. The statement also reflects the Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition of faith in action, emphasizing compassion, mutual love, and respect for religious and cultural diversity.

The revision process, part of the Pathways of Promise strategic plan, aimed to enhance clarity and consistency in communicating EMU’s values. The values now align more closely with the university’s vision statement, which guides the strategic plan. The process included discussions with peer institutions, input from the Executive Leadership Team, and extensive feedback from campus communities.

Throughout the spring, 14 focus group sessions were held, involving students, faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees. These sessions gathered insights that informed the final revision. The Board of Trustees approved the new statement during its June 14 meeting.

Dean Daniel Ott, who facilitated the re-envisioning, noted the process was inspiring. He emphasized that the values statement reflects the shared commitment of the university community to its mission and vision.

The previous values statement emphasized biblical values of Christian discipleship, community, service, and peace. The new statement builds on these foundations while expanding the university’s focus on peacebuilding, justice, and active faith.

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