2008-09 Catalog - Saint Mary's College of California

student lifeStudent Life provides integratedlearning experiences, empoweringstudents to become engaged,global and ethical persons.The vice provost leads the Student Life area in building, sustaining andenhancing a community focused on student learning by providing servicesand support for students outside the classroom. Student Life areasinclude: Dean of Students Office, Residence Life, Community Life, NewStudent & Family Programs, Events and Conferences, Counseling Center,Health and Wellness Center, Student Involvement and Leadership,Intercultural Center, Women’s Resource Center and Public Safety.Student Life administrators and staff work together and in associationwith other campus departments to form key relationships for the benefitof our students.Student Life is guided by the following Lasallian Core Principles:• Faith in the Presence of God: Belief in the living presence of Godin our world. Prayer and regular reminders of God’s presenceis a prevailing spirit of the College. All are taught to discover howGod is active in one’s life and to learn to see the world with“eyes of faith.”• Concern for the Poor and Social Justice: A demonstrated sensitivitytoward the poor and those suffering from injustices. The communityis encouraged to get involved in assisting the marginalized.• Quality Education: Prepares students not only for a job, but for life.This education advances the students’ abilities to use their talentsto critically examine the world and contemporary culture in lightof the message of the Gospels, and to take greater responsibilityfor their own education.• Respect for All Persons: A concerted effort by the entire communityto respect the dignity of all persons.• Inclusive Community: A united community where diversity isrespected, no one is left out and everyone finds a place. Individualswithin the College community recognize and accept oneanother’s limitations.27