Virginia Commonwealth University

Mission statement

As the premier urban, public research university in Virginia, VCU’s mission is to advance knowledge and student success through its commitments to:

An engaged, learner-centered environment that fosters inquiry, discovery and innovation in a global setting
Research that expands the boundaries of new knowledge and creative expression and promotes translational applications to improve human health
Interdisciplinary collaborations that bring new perspectives to complex problems and mobilize creative energies that advance innovation and solve global challenges
Health care that strives to preserve and restore health for all people, to seek the cause and cure of diseases through groundbreaking research, and to educate those who serve humanity
Diversity that provides a climate of inclusion, a dedication to addressing disparities wherever they exist, and an opportunity to explore and create in an environment of trust
Sustainable, university-community partnerships that enhance the educational, economic and cultural vitality of the communities VCU serves in Virginia and around the world

VCU will be a premier urban, public research university distinguished by its commitment to:

The intellectual and academic success of a diverse student body
Research and discovery that advances knowledge, inspires creativity and improves human health
The global engagement of students, faculty and staff that transforms lives and communities

Accountability – committing to the efficient and transparent stewardship of our resources to achieve institutional excellence
Achievement – ensuring distinction in learning, research and scholarly pursuits, service, and patient care
Collaboration – fostering collegiality and cooperation to advance learning, entrepreneurship and inquiry
Freedom – striving for intellectual truth with responsibility and civility, respecting the dignity of all individuals
Innovation – cultivating discovery, creativity, originality, inventiveness and talent
Service – engaging in the application of learning and discovery to improve the human condition and support the public good at home and abroad
Diversity – ensuring a climate of trust, honesty and integrity where all people are valued and differences are recognized as an asset
Integrity – adhering to the highest standards of honesty, respect and professional and scholarly ethics