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Relationship to Christ
AdventHealth University (AHU) upholds high academic standards and is deeply committed to preparing outstanding healthcare professionals who embrace the principles of whole person education—nurturing the intellectual, physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of those they serve. As a Christian educational institution, AHU recognizes that God plays a significant role in the affairs of humanity, particularly in the formation of compassionate and service-driven professionals. The pattern that Christ established during His life on earth is especially important to faculty. His overriding concern for His fellow human beings, His complete absorption in His “Father’s business,” and His utter dependence on God for personal strength serve as guiding principles for faculty as they develop their own professional practice, ensuring that their work reflects a holistic approach to care and service.
Relationship to Students
Students are regarded as valuable individuals to whom God assigns great worth, each possessing unique intellectual, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Recognizing that education extends beyond academics, faculty are called to respect their students, foster an environment of mutual learning, and support their growth in all aspects of life. By embracing whole person education, faculty model for students the attributes of the finest professionals, demonstrating not only intellectual excellence but also compassion, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Relationship to Colleagues
Faculty must respect and support their colleagues, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared purpose. Higher education should be a place where teamwork and mutual encouragement thrive, reflecting the core values of whole person education which include intellectual engagement, emotional intelligence, and ethical leadership. As such, professional differences should be resolved in a professional manner, ensuring that respect, integrity, and a commitment to student success remain at the forefront. Disparaging remarks or divisive behavior have no place in a Christ-centered, whole-person learning environment.
Relationship to the University and its Administrators
Faculty must support and promote the mission, vision, and policies of the University (See 2. Mission of the University), recognizing that AHU is committed to whole-person education and the integration of faith, health, and service. When faculty cannot, in good conscience, uphold these principles, they should withdraw from University employment. Faculty are entrusted with shaping both the intellectual and ethical dimensions of the academic community, which includes respecting the terms of their letters of appointment and fulfilling their responsibilities with excellence. They should also demonstrate a lifestyle consistent with the Christian values of the University, serving as role models who inspire students to pursue purpose, integrity, and compassionate service in their professional and personal lives.
Relationship to the Non-Academic Community
Faculty should actively engage with their communities, churches, and service organizations, contributing according to their capabilities and available time. Whole person education emphasizes that learning extends beyond the classroom into the real world, where faculty can serve as leaders, mentors, and advocates for the well-being of society. While faculty hold personal convictions, they must not publicize their political or religious views if, by doing so, they would demean the reputation of the University or would impair student or community confidence. Instead, they should seek to promote understanding, uphold ethical standards, and demonstrate Christ-centered leadership in their interactions with the broader community.
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