Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is rooted in our Catholic identity at St. Thomas. Archbishop John Ireland founded the University of St. Thomas for immigrants who weren't welcomed elsewhere. Our convictions call us to protect and enhance the dignity of every human and to work for a more just and equitable society. We strive to be a university characterized by radical hospitality and are steadfast in our commitment to embedding a shared sense of belonging where all feel welcomed.
The university's internal work on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is coordinated through the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI). ODEI ensures that our work within the university to make St. Thomas more inclusive happens at all levels and includes everyone. By using data and stories to measure progress and experiences, and by transparently communicating across the university, ODEI helps campus culture continuously become more diverse and welcoming. In addition, Student Diversity and Inclusion Services (SDIS) directly supports students by offering programming that promotes diversity and social justice awareness and working to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.
At the same time, St. Thomas is working outside of our walls to achieve social justice and dismantle inequities in the broader community through the Racial Justice Initiative. Through a distinctive focus on historical recovery, the Initiative creates opportunities in partnership with local leaders and groups for critical conversations and actions around racial justice.
Diversity, equity and inclusion are indispensable to academic excellence and the holistic development of our students. Our university community includes and welcomes people of diverse races, ethnicities, geographic origins, gender identities, ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, political perspectives, work experiences, physical and intellectual abilities, financial means, and all other characteristics as protected by applicable laws.
Opened in 2017, Dougherty Family College offers an associate degree designed to propel students towards success and provide a smooth transition to a four-year college. This two-year college program is for inspired students who want to obtain a four-year college degree and face financial or social obstacles on the way to their goal.
SDIS promotes diversity and social justice awareness for all students through personal interactions, leadership and training opportunities, and various sponsored and co-sponsored educational programs. We aim to ensure equitable retention and graduation rates, and to maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Darcy Nguyen '26 arrived at the University of St. Thomas with a clear vision: study business at the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship so she can one day reopen her family’s restaurant, Pho Saigon. The West Side spot, which her parents ran for a decade, closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Nguyen's dream of sharing authentic… The post Why a First-Gen Veteran Chose Entrepreneurship at St. Thomas appeared first on Newsroom | University of St. Thomas.
The skies over St. Paul had a steady drizzle on the morning of the University of St. Thomas’ annual March Through the Arches as first-year students gathered at the edge of the lower quad, adjusting purple shirts and snapping photos with family. Then, a few minutes before the ceremony began, sunlight broke through. It was… The post Largest First-Year Class in St. Thomas History Marches Through the Arches appeared first on Newsroom | University of St. Thomas.
When most people think of the University of St. Thomas, they picture the iconic Arches, the Kasota limestone exterior of its buildings, and the deep-rooted traditions of Minnesota’s largest private university. The educational approach and opportunities for its students also stand out. That quality extends beyond the St. Paul campus, the original home of St.… The post Internships Jumpstart Careers for Dougherty Family College Students appeared first on Newsroom | University of St. Thomas.
Health care professionals, policymakers, community leaders, and students will gather at the University of St. Thomas on April 30 for the third annual Whole Person Health Summit. The event, presented by the Morrison Family College of Health, is dedicated to advancing health equity through culturally responsive whole-person care. This year’s theme, “Building Power, Transforming Systems,”… The post St. Thomas to Broaden Conversations About Health and Well-Being at Its Whole Person Health Summit appeared first on Newsroom | University of St. Thomas.
Dr. Obasesam Okoi, an assistant professor in the department of Justice and Society Studies, has been appointed to the editorial board of the esteemed Journal of Peace Education. His distinguished scholarship in peace and conflict studies, with a strong regional focus on Africa, will further the journal’s commitment to advancing critical discussions on peace education,… The post Dr. Obasesam Okoi Appointed to the Editorial Board of the Journal of Peace Education appeared first on Newsroom | University of St. Thomas.