Our commitment to create a campus community where everyone feels welcome and respected is deeply rooted in our Franciscan mission and values of compassion, wisdom and integrity.

Acknowledging the dignity of all people will help us to inspire a campus culture where everyone feels valued and supported. St. Bonaventure encourages students, faculty and staff to engage with one another in meaningful ways, reflecting the Franciscan ideal of building a caring environment where all members can thrive and contribute.

When St. Francis of Assisi entered the hostile camp of Malik-al-Kamil, Sultan of Egypt, in the early 1200s during the Fifth Crusade, his initial goal was to convert the sultan to Christianity. Instead, the two men parted with a new respect for each other's faith and culture.

Their meeting is often referred to as the first real dialogue between Christians and Muslims, and the ability of St. Francis to embrace a perceived enemy as his brother is part of the tradition of understanding and acceptance that guides the community of Franciscans to this day.

We strive to walk in the footprints of St. Francis by cultivating a campuswide environment for celebrating multiculturalism and diversity, and to instill in all our community members an appreciation for the similarities and differences that we encounter as citizens of the world. It's part of our Franciscan values, part of what it means to be a Franciscan university.

The President's Commission on Human Dignity is committed to respecting the uniqueness of each individual, to embrace people of all backgrounds, to advocate for just communities, and to foster opportunities to develop multicultural competencies.

The commission is dedicated to developing educational and social initiatives that reflect the individual self-worth of all regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national or ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, marital or veteran status campuswide.

Located on the second floor of Reilly Center, the center is committed to providing students with the support and skills needed to thrive at SBU.  The center supports the personal and professional development of student through resources, educational workshops, and the creation of events and programs that encourage interaction, collaboration and mutual respect among the student population. Center activities are focused on creating moments of elevation, insight, pride, and connection for all members of the SBU community.

Guided by our university values of compassion and community, our center provides a safe and empowering space where students can find support, resources, and advocacy. We are here for you every step of the way, helping you navigate challenges and create meaningful connections on campus.

Go to the Center for Student Advocacy and Community.