Quick Links ONE UNIVERSITY, MANY VOICES UD VALUES The University of Delaware embodies its motto—“Knowledge is the light of the mind”—and to spread that light requires a community that nurtures intellectual curiosity and free inquiry, where everyone is empowered to learn and to flourish. This is a community where we celebrate our individual and collective achievements, where we respect diverse backgrounds, values and viewpoints. The values of the University of Delaware are woven throughout the institution—in our mission statement, in classrooms, offices and laboratories and in our actions. They guide us every day. Academic Freedom We each have the responsibility to foster an atmosphere that promotes the free exchange of ideas and opinions. Everyone has the right to benefit from this atmosphere. Diversity and Inclusion We welcome and value different backgrounds, perspectives and learning experiences; this is essential for educating global citizens, developing knowledge and advancing and enhancing our world. Innovation Revolutionary thinking is part of our DNA—our first students in 1743 helped found this nation. We want to make a significant difference in the world, and we are collaborating across disciplines with risk-taking, creativity and innovation to address the biggest challenges of our time. Community Our supportive, friendly campus community advocates for each individual’s voice to be heard. We encourage respect and civility toward everyone, knowing that mutual appreciation and dialogue leads to greater learning. Service As an engaged University, we create and capitalize on innovative partnerships with government, industry and the community for economic and civic development. These connections enrich our scholarship, research and creative activity, enhance the curriculum and ultimately contribute to the public good. On this page, you will find our values as expressed in UD’s Mission Statement, the Student Values Statement adopted by the Student Government Association and the Statement of Respect and Responsibility of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. RESOURCES Leadership The UD Community Facts & Figures Commitment to Delawareans Your Right to Know Office of the President Diversity at UD Office of Equity & Inclusion Disability Support Services Previous Next 1 2 3 4 Mission Statement Student Values Statement Statement of Respect & Responsibility MISSION STATEMENT The University of Delaware exists to cultivate learning, develop knowledge, and foster the free exchange of ideas. State-assisted yet privately governed, the University has a strong tradition of distinguished scholarship, which is manifested in its research and creative activities, teaching, and service, in line with its commitment to increasing and disseminating scientific, humanistic, artistic, and social knowledge for the benefit of the larger society. Founded in 1743 and chartered by the state in 1833, the University of Delaware today is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant university. The University of Delaware is a major research university with extensive graduate programs that is also dedicated to outstanding undergraduate and professional education. UD faculty are committed to the intellectual, cultural, and ethical development of students as citizens, scholars and professionals. UD graduates are prepared to contribute to a global and diverse society that requires leaders with creativity, integrity and a dedication to service. The University of Delaware promotes an environment in which all people are inspired to learn, and encourages intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, free inquiry, and respect for the views and values of an increasingly diverse population. An institution engaged in addressing the critical needs of the state, nation, and global community, the University of Delaware carries out its mission with the support of alumni who span the globe and in partnership with public, private, and nonprofit institutions in Delaware and beyond. TOP Explore UD in Photos Find your passion: Major Finder Alumni & Friends: Give to UD and Connect UD Home EXPLORE About Us Athletics UDaily Virtual Tour Employment ACADEMICS Undergraduate Admissions Graduate Admissions Colleges Library Research SERVICES Accessibility Notice People Directory My UD Campus Safety A to Z Index CONNECT Contact Us University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716 USA P: 302-831-2792 ©2021 University of Delaware Comments Legal Notices Accessibility