The Philosophy Statement of Saint Xavier University is intended to be complementary to its Mission Statement. Both Statements address how the University seeks to fulfill its educational mission in the context of its Catholic identity and Mercy heritage.
More specifically, the "University continues to build upon the ideals of its founders and sponsors, the Sisters of Mercy, who established an academy defined by intellectual rigor in the tradition of the liberal arts, the encouragement of religious faith, and action in solidarity with the economically poor of the world, especially women and children." Further, "in all programs of study, the University encourages the examination of fundamental questions of human concern, respectful dialogue in the context of diverse points of view and experience, and the search for truth and justice."
The University community also recognizes that the search for truth, the debate of ideas and the process of thinking critically might, at times, lead individuals or groups to wish to express their views through dissent, forms of public demonstration or dialogue. As an academic institution committed to the free expression of ideas, Saint Xavier University supports the freedom of individuals and groups to engage in public demonstration as a form of discourse. At the same time, the University must balance this freedom of expression with the mission of the institution and the rights of its members to pursue their academic and vocational objectives without unreasonable obstruction or hindrance.
Further, as a nonprofit, private institution of higher education, the University's activities are regulated in part by Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC"). This means that the University is prohibited from participating in political campaigns for candidates or ballot initiatives. The University is further prohibited from conducting lobbying activities. A violation of IRC regulations by the University could have serious consequences, including but not limited to the loss of its tax-exempt status. The University does not therefore, directly or indirectly, endorse any political candidate or ballot initiative. Nor does the University solicit funds for any candidate or ballot initiative.
As a result, students will be expected to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Campus-based student organizations may participate in a political campaign for a ballot initiative or candidate for any public office as long as each organization abides by applicable University policies and procedures.
- Any student organization that chooses to advocate for a particular political candidate or ballot initiative may not receive funding from the University that applies to such advocacy.
- Student organizations that advocate for a political candidate or ballot initiative may not use University facilities as a venue for fundraising.
- Student organizations may not distribute campaign materials on campus.
- Campaigning and/or the solicitation of funds may not occur in University-owned housing.
- University facilities may not be used for any activities restricted under these guidelines, including, but not limited to:
- The use of the Mail Room or Copy Cats.
- The provision of office supplies, computers, telephones, fax machines, copiers and other University-owned equipment.
On occasion, the University will host certain nonpartisan political activities or presentations for educational and/or informational purposes. In order to comply with IRC requirements, the University must ensure that:
- The event has a nonpartisan atmosphere.
- Any political candidates (or their representatives) must be prepared to speak in a non-candidate capacity.
- The event is opened first to the University community in support of the educational purpose before it is opened to the general public.
