Florida State / The Center for Leadership & Social Change / About Us / Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles

Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles

Mission

Transform lives through leadership education, identity development and community engagement.

Vision

Students and alumni are responsible citizens and effective leaders. They are aware of and engaged in the world around them and use their talents and means to create a more just and humane society.

Students are aware of their values and multiple identities, including ability, age, class, ethnicity, faith structure, gender identity expression, nationality, race, sex, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. They recognize the intersection of these identities and acknowledge that multiculturalism enhances quality of life. From this understanding, students belong to and create intercultural communities that benefit from the value of difference.

Students and alumni are known and respected for their leadership acumen and public service tradition. In their personal, professional and creative communities, they readily seek to accept opportunities for life-long learning, meaningful influence and positions of trust.

Guiding Principles for our Work

Holistic Learning

Engage fully all aspects of the learner: mind, body, and spirit
Provide and support a physically and a mentally healthy environment
Respect and take advantage of all dimensions and talents of others

Respect and Commitment to a Shared Vision

Support each other to accomplish personal and organizational goals
Seek continuous advice and involvement from others
Work together to create a shared vision and make continuous improvements

Diversity

Respect and appreciate the history, tradition and cultures of ourselves and our students
Commitment to understanding the multiple layers of our identity and the identities of others
Recognize the importance of diverse experiences and thought

Social Justice

Seek opportunities and expand knowledge to create positive sustainable change
Develop an inclusive climate cognizant of power dynamics and their impacts on relationships
Create an environment that encourage awareness of social issues
Model social justice values and behaviors

Unity

Create a community of care and regard
Encourage the establishment and cultivation of meaningful relationships
Honor the values, thoughts and strengths of others
Act cooperatively and courteously in all environments
Celebrate successes and occasions