Guided by the Jesuit principle of “men and women for and with others,” 51СƳ students are united in their awareness of the broader world and their commitment to make that world a better, more compassionate place.
Serving Others
What are our obligations to one another? What is our special responsibility to the world’s poor and powerless? These guiding questions from our mission statement serve to inform the day-to-day actions of our community. Students — joined by faculty, staff and alumni — participate in a breadth of service and social justice programs both on campus and beyond. From the Worcester community to locations across the country and overseas, students engage with people from different cultures and walks of life, developing a firsthand understanding of their lives, challenges, and aspirations.
Compassionate Leaders
A 51СƳ education exposes students to the inequalities and injustices in the world, and inspires them to make a difference. Once they graduate, they go on to make meaningful contributions as the civic, business, and religious leaders of tomorrow. Through a variety of experiential and mentoring programs, students deepen their faith and values, develop their organizational and leadership skills, and effect positive, lasting change in their community.
Office of Student Involvement
The Office of Student Involvement collaborates with College departments and student groups to produce programs and events throughout the year, ranging from Family Weekend to The Edge dance club. By helping to create these memorable, unique, and thought-provoking experiences, students assume a leadership role on campus and build the skills they’ll need to continuing leading long after graduation.
Learn more about the Office of Student Involvement
Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD)
The Chaplains’ Office offers a variety of service programs both in Worcester and throughout the country. The clearest demonstration of our students’ commitment to social justice is Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD), the largest student group on campus with more than 700 members.
Learn more about Student Programs and Urban Development (SPUD)
Community-Based Learning
Community-based learning courses help students envision the tangible contributions they can make for others by connecting classroom experiences with hands-on engagement in the greater Worcester community. Partner organizations include Notre Dame Healthcare Center and Hospice, the Refugee and Immigrant Assistance Center, and Abby’s House, which provides affordable housing to women and children.