Our Core Values & Beliefs

Our Core Values

In 2006, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln adopted its Core Values. The University community contributed to the development of these core values, which reflect our commitment to the ideals of a leading land-grant, comprehensive research university.

We value:

  • Learning that prepares students for lifetime success and leadership;
  • Excellence pursued without compromise;
  • Achievement supported by a climate that celebrates each person's success;
  • Diversity of ideas and people;
  • Engagement with academic, business, and civic communities throughout Nebraska and the world;
  • Research and creative activity that inform teaching, foster discovery, and contribute to economic prosperity and our quality of life;
  • Stewardship of the human, financial, and physical resources committed to our care.

We demonstrate these values when we strive to assure that each individual is able to work and learn in an atmosphere of dignity, equity and inclusion.

As we enter the 2019-20 academic year, we ask that all members of the University community be especially mindful of our responsibility to create an environment that is welcoming to all, where each person feels accepted, valued and safe. To that end, we are providing the following belief statements to enhance and clarify our conviction to this principle.

Beliefs on Diversity and Inclusion

At the University of Nebraska, we strive for excellence in all that we do. True excellence requires that each individual be able to work and learn in an atmosphere of respect, dignity, and acceptance. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion requires each of us to continuously ensure our interactions be respectful, protect free speech and inspire academic freedom.

At the University of Nebraska:

  • We value equity, inclusion, and dignity for all.
  • We strive for excellence and recognize that our differences make us stronger. We respect and seek out inclusion of differences, realizing we can learn from each other.
  • We insist on a culture of respect, and recognize that words and actions matter. The absence of action and words also matter.
  • We believe in the freedom of speech, and encourage the civil and respectful expression of ideas and opinions.
  • We all share in the responsibility to create a positive culture and to safeguard equity, inclusion, dignity, and respect for all. Each member of the University community—faculty, staff and students—should be a role model for others.
  • We take action when we observe someone being treated unfairly or in a demeaning manner.