The Jesuits Mission In Higher Education

Speaking candidly, twenty-seven noteworthy Jesuits from major areas of Jesuit higher education have contributed essays that discuss how the recent 34th General Congregation has had an impact on their scholarship and role as teachers and administrators.

Recounts the history and development of Jesuit higher education in the American South

There are 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. All are distinct, yet remain united in their efforts to graduate men and women who are "people for others." Several factors make it challenging for each to infuse Jesuit and Catholic identity on campus today. Expert research indicates that Jesuit educators are taking necessary steps to enhance Jesuit values, but offer no guarantees that the mission will survive over time. Scholarly articles written by those who have been affiliated with Jesuit institutions show that even though many people embrace and carry out the traditions of the Society of Jesus in higher education, there are many who do not, making it more difficult for administrators to achieve their goal of enhancing Jesuit mission and identity on campus. Research points out that because there are fewer Jesuits today, schools have created a multitude of programs and courses to engage faculty, staff, and students in the mission of the institution so that they feel a sense of commitment and responsibility in promoting the ideals and values of St. Ignatius Loyola. While strides have been made in recent years to achieve this goal, evidence suggests that too many students remain uninformed about the significance and meaning of a Jesuit education. Research indicates that educators should do more to encourage their students to focus not only on their careers, but to also on making a difference in the lives of others through service, which is central to the mission of a Jesuit education.

A Jesuit Education Reader is a collection of the best writing on the mission, challenge, and state of Jesuit education. This anthology will prove especially valuable to those who work in Jesuit education and other Catholic and Christian schools.