I n every place and time, the Catholic university or college has a distinct role to play in the transformation of culture.
Culture is the cultus animi, or the cultivation of the human soul in the splendor of the truth.
Since culture takes root in the minds and hearts of people, by carrying out its role consistently, the Catholic university or college contributes to the transformation of culture at its very foundation. Being true enables the Catholic university or college to be the living presence of truth. This living presence of truth transcends any utilitarian aim or pragmatic goal, just as the molten core of culture itself is to be found invigorating the character of individual persons. Institutions that inevitably treat persons as means are ultimately oblivious to the proper ends of culture. Against this, the Catholic university or college should challenge society's insistence that it serve only the body and pretend that the soul can take care of itself.