The Perspectives That Divide Us - Rockhurst University

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4Rockhurst Strengthens Its Focus on MissionGuided by thestrategic plan,members of theRockhurst community areworking to improve theways in which the Universityforms men and womenfor others. This process willinvolve not only change,but also a renewed focuson our Jesuit missionand values.Toward this end, Rockhurstcreated the Office ofMission and Ministry inAugust and hired the Rev.Kevin Cullen, S.J., as vicepresident for mission andministry. In this capacity,Fr. Cullen will provide leadershipand direction regardingthe University’s sharedvision and strategic plan.He also will be responsiblefor the Office of CampusMinistry.“The Office of Missionand Ministry will focus itsefforts upon helping us tofulfill our mission as aJesuit university,” saidthe Rev. Thomas Curran,O.S.F.S., president. “Whilethe articulation and practiceof our Jesuit values is ashared responsibility,leadership and directionin this venture are helpfuland necessary.”Before coming toRockhurst, Fr. Cullenserved the provincial of theMissouri Province of theSociety of Jesus as assistantfor social and internationalministries. He also hasbeen the novice directorfor the Missouri Provinceand director of Ignatianspirituality programs forthe Mission and ValuesOffice at Regis Universityin Denver. He has taught atthe high school and collegelevels, served in parishesand retreat houses andbeen involved in the JesuitRefugee Service and l’Archefaith-based communities.“I am impressed byRockhurst’s commitment toservice that offers studentsand faculty a clear invitationinto transformation inthe Jesuit tradition,” saidFr. Cullen. “The FinucaneService Project revealedRockhurst’s commitment toforming women and menin a faith that does justice.The practice of action,Fr. Kevin Cullen, S.J.reflection and analysisis integrated in both ouracademic and studentdevelopment programs,and that way of proceedingreveals that the mission isalive in the University.”“I’m excited about our future,” says Jane Lampo, Ed.D.,vice president for advancement. “Our job is to create atransformational experience foreach and every student.The changes we’ll bemaking in the comingmonths and years arefocused on helpingus do just that.I think this is animportant stepin moving theUniversity forward in a way that is consistentwith our mission.”As the University begins to implement thestrategic plan, it also will begin a series of planning,budgeting and accountability cycles.“In addition to keeping us focused on the sharedvision and our four critical issues, this new processencourages responsible stewardship of Universityresources by evaluating progress, gauging effectivenessand ensuring accountability,” says Bill Bassett,director of planning and assessment.Ro c k h u r s t4w i n t e r 2007 3