A Letter from the President

Dear Alumni and Friends,

The University of Saint Mary believes in educating the whole person – intellectually, spiritually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Educating the whole person is a university-wide endeavor, not just the responsibility of the faculty. Campus Ministry helps students discover and develop their spirituality and relationship with our gracious God. Student Life aids them in the process of social and emotional development. The Athletic Department teaches them grit, resilience, teamwork, and discipline. Athletics also teaches students to win and lose with grace.

Saint Mary teams play other institutions much like us. Most are faith-based and care more about building young men and women of character than the final score. Don’t get me wrong, I like to win, it is just not my top priority. For us, athletics is another opportunity to teach. We don’t make money on athletics, and we don’t have a multimillion-dollar TV contract. The field, the court, the track, and the pool are learning environments just like a classroom.

We are very clear with our student-athletes that the end goal is graduation, so good grades are not optional. We check grades and attendance weekly so we can intervene if a student is behind or not attending. This is most important for our freshmen as they transition to college-level work and master time management. Some take a bit longer to make the transition than others. All are capable, and it is a joy to watch when they transition from being kids to young men and women ready to chart their paths.

The Saint Mary athletes are succeeding on the field, too. We now regularly send teams and athletes to national competitions. It is a joy to watch them compete with such passion and school pride.

When I see our former athletes return to campus as professionals – doctors, accountants, nurses, police officers, and bankers – my heart swells with joy and gratitude. The Saint Mary education worked!

Blessings,

Sister Diane Steele, SCL, PhD, C’83
University President