Vision & Goals

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Vision

The vision for the Paul Robeson Cultural Center at The Pennsylvania State University is driven by the following conceptual definition of culture.

We define culture as:

"A system of shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that members of society use to cope with their world and with one another, and that are transmitted from generation to generation through learning. Culture includes all of the things a group as a whole thinks, believes, and does. To study a group's culture is to study its art, literature, religion, philosophy, sports, clothing, politics, customs, histories, and habits. [1]"

With this definition of culture as our overarching guide, the vision of the Paul Robeson Cultural Center is to provide service within an educational environment that advances the cause of human interaction and understanding across cultures. We shall seek to offer to both our primary clientele (students) and our secondary clientele (all other members of the community and alumni) the most beneficial, uplifting and enlightening array of educational opportunities and events possible. We shall present and promote programs that enhance the overall educational experience and that encourage appreciation for a pluralistic society. The Paul Robeson Cultural Center shall continue to supplement classroom instruction for any student who seeks our services. Finally, the Paul Robeson Cultural Center shall be a campus destination where all visitors find attractive, comfortable and functional facilities, engaging visual displays and the opportunity to explore and to engage in dialogue and/or study of issues related to culture including diversity, leadership and community development.

Goals

To help students make successful transitions to and through college by providing a select array of quality educational programs and support services that meet common and unique student and institutional needs. To select, support and develop a diverse staff with the skills, ambition and commitment necessary to support and challenge students in pursuit of their educational, personal, and career goals. To improve the quality of diversity initiatives and the delivery of program and support services to those with special needs. To systematically assess and continuously improve the delivery of essential, cost effective, educational programs and support services.

Our mission and goals require that staff approach student service by using the following strategies:

Advocacy on behalf of student needs and interests Stewardship over a safe, attractive, and utilitarian facility Creating an environment where historically under-represented and non-traditional students participate as active and respected members of a learning community Creating quality educational programs, which transmit to students the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes, behaviors, and values. Emphasizing the important role of the visual and performing arts as preservers and transmitters of cultures.

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Updated August 28, 2006