Valparaiso University is a learning community where students are encouraged to question, to engage, to challenge, to explore, and ultimately, to embark on a rewarding personal and professional journey. This can be done only in an environment where diversity is honored and respected. Diversity of thought. Diversity of background. Diversity of faith.

Diversity brings the world to our doorstep at a time when preparing the citizens of the world is more important than ever. As an independent Lutheran university, it is vitally important that we continue to foster an environment noted for its inclusiveness. Here, all voices are heard. We believe that our community gains by listening, learning, and finally leading from a foundation of knowledge about one another—those things which we discover we have in common, and those things that may be unique to each one of us. This is why diversity is integral to the objectives of Valparaiso University’s Strategic Plan, which will guide us over the next two decades.

I invite all members of the University’s community to join me in embracing the opportunities offered by living in a diverse community of learning. We have so much to gain. By recognizing and celebrating both our differences and similarities, we become a stronger, more unified community, grounded in our shared values. Together, we travel farther faster in our common pursuit of truth.

Mark A. Heckler, PhD
President
Valparaiso University