Carthage Mission and
Statement of Principles

Seeking truth, building strength, inspiring service—together

SEEKING TRUTH

Carthage is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, espousing and expressing the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Carthage honors God’s love for all people and celebrates the rich diversity of creation.

Carthage embraces scholarship and teaching that are grounded in respect for truth, the possibilities and limitations of individual perspectives, and personal accountability.

Carthage recognizes that the quest for Truth is a life-long journey, and that knowledge, experience, and understanding, gained through a love of learning, are the surest guides.

Carthage promotes personal, professional, and social relationships characterized by truth, honesty, and integrity.

BUILDING STRENGTH

Carthage challenges all members of the community to seek excellence in every endeavor.

Carthage provides the resources, tools, and facilities necessary to attract and develop committed students, faculty, staff, and trustees.

Carthage strives for robustness throughout its educational experience, providing students with opportunities to grow in all facets of life.

Carthage seeks breadth and depth of cultural experience from faculty and students, building a foundation for informed, courageous, and effective action in the larger world.

Carthage collaborates with advisors and partners who help increase the relevance, vibrancy, and resilience of the educational experience.

Carthage is a responsible steward, investing in and preserving resources in service to current and successive generations of students.

INSPIRING SERVICE

Carthage affirms that the privilege of education is accompanied by the responsibilities of social awareness.

Carthage challenges students to become builders of a just and compassionate world by immersing them in an educational experience that offers exposure to the full breadth of existence on Earth.

Carthage prepares students for lives of service, and progression to leadership, by providing opportunities to give of themselves and help others—locally, nationally, and internationally.

Carthage models and promotes the art of stewardship, enjoining respect for life in all of its various forms and cultures.

TOGETHER

Carthage is a college community that spans generations and bridges ideologies, nurturing lives of service, work, appreciation, and understanding.

Carthage affirms that Truth, Strength, and Service intertwine beneficially throughout life, and encourages members of the community to follow paths that incorporate all three.

Carthage embraces traditions that lift up the community and increase its relevance and prestige.

Carthage encourages community members to challenge and support one another, to accept responsibility and require accountability, and to collaborate in serving the best interest of students.