Christopher Newport University students will achieve academic excellence in a liberal learning curriculum. They will be liberally educated, intentional learners who share responsibility for their education. Achieving academic excellence, CNU students will master a discipline in order to contribute significantly to society and be committed to civic and community service in order to participate as responsible citizens. In their achievement of excellence, students will develop the habits of mind to prepare for additional formal education, as well as the world of work and leisure.

Christopher Newport University alumni will be well prepared for responsible citizenship. They will value ethical conduct and intellectual honesty shaped by a moral identity and a sense of social justice. Prepared to lead responsibly in a diverse society, CNU alumni will recognize and respect the complex identities of others, their histories and their cultures. They will possess a commitment to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

University Priority II

A Culture of Student Learning and Engagement
Independent, disciplined and dedicated students committed to learning, scholarship and civic responsibility in a community of honor.

Goals and Strategies

• Align campus programs to the principles of liberal learning.
• Provide a program of rich and diverse cultural opportunities.
• Expand cultural, geographic, socio-economic and ethnic diversity.
• Strengthen student transition to university life.
• Connect learning inside and outside the classroom.
• Nurture student academic and social communities.
• Enhance campus cultural and social life.

• Model scholarly commitment to learning.
• Involve students in the development and implementation of their "program of study."
• Reinforce commitment to the university as a community of honor and the University's Honor Code.
• Promote civic responsibility and global awareness.

• Create an environment in which students, faculty and staff participate in informed discussion.
• Encourage and support mentorship of students and student-faculty research.
• Cultivate interactive learning.
• Ensure a strong connection between undergraduate liberal learning and the graduate programs.
• Promote excellence in undergraduate and graduate research.
• Connect graduate programs clearly to the University's mission.
• Foster aesthetic sensibilities across the disciplines.

• Create opportunities for students to participate in leadership and service.
• Establish and maintain campus-wide coordination of community service and internships.
• Recognize and reward outstanding leadership and service.

• Prepare students to succeed in a diverse and global society.
• Prepare learned, disciplined and skilled graduates to meet the rapidly changing challenges of a professional life.
• Promote an understanding of ethics and ethical values.
• Promote study abroad.
• Support departmental honors awards.

• Strengthen and focus the first year experience.
• Develop a mentor program between upper class and first year students.
• Create sophomore and junior class recognition ceremonies.
• Encourage student involvement in campus life and culture.
• Provide preparation for graduate and professional schools.
• Enhance the quality of student life through expanded student services.