Student Affairs

Dear Parents,

It is clear, USD creates leaders dedicated to ethical conduct and compassionate service. The mission and vision of USD forms a framework by which extraordinary opportunities exist to create great leaders of tomorrow, willing and mindful in their quest for social justice and peace. Our graduates are not only academically impressive, they are well-rounded individuals poised to make a difference in society. When you entrust your children to us, you do so knowing they will undergo a transformation; one that will prepare them to enter the world. During this time of growth and development, our relationship with you is invaluable.

I have seen the confidence that you have placed in us. You know that in sending your children to USD, their health, welfare and success will be well tended to by faculty, staff and administrators alike. You and your USD students are an integral part of the future of this great institution.

One of the developmental tasks for college students is the formation of their personal identities and mastery of competence. Your support and love will always be there, yet, as part of every student’s growth, there is a necessary separation from family. As that can be difficult for them, it can also be difficult for you as parents. Now is the time students will need to seek out and utilize the various resources available to them at the university and begin to make their own way.

Our First Year Experience program is designed to assist freshmen students to do just that and to achieve specific learning outcomes that are directly related to USD’s educational mission. Our approach is an integrated one with the entire campus community working collaboratively to build a community of engaged students who value academic excellence, intellectual, personal and spiritual development, inclusion, ethical conduct and compassionate service. Participation in that engaged community will help your son or daughter to develop skills and competencies that will set them solidly on the continuing journey to excellence.

I urge you to encourage your sons and daughters to explore and become actively involved in some aspect of the broad array of student organizations, community service opportunities, and numerous other leadership opportunities available on campus. Those experiences are available to complement the academic program and to broaden the perspectives of our students.

USD offers numerous services designed to assist your student’s adaptation academically and personally. This handbook describes many of them.

I look forward to meeting you and encourage you to attend the many events on campus at which families are most welcome. Welcome to the USD family!

Sincerely,
Carmen M. Vazquez
Vice President, Student Affairs