Lance Askildson, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President; Chaminade University of Honolulu

Fostering meaningful relationships is at the center of what we do as educators generally and is particularly instrumental within our Marianist commitment to educating and growing the whole person – mind, body and spirit. Finding ways in which we can steward authentic and transformational relationships – among students, faculty, staff and between one another – is profoundly important in a time when technology and increasingly superficial (or outright artificial) communication is so common.

I experience the transformational power of our university’s values and the relationships that they afford every time I hold a conversation, a meeting or a class. Engaging with my colleagues, peers and students is the ever-present reminder that we are members of a values-based community and one which is dedicated to a greater good in service to all.

At Chaminade University, our Marianist charism helps us emphasize the value of authentic dialogue and exchange over transactional interactions and efficiencies. Listening and hearing one another; considering alternative ideas and perspectives; collaborating, consulting and sharing in a spirit of collegiality; these are among the best manifestations of our values as Marianist educators.

Posted in Marianists Change Lives