Mission Statement

The Commons is rooted in the republican tradition of responsible and virtuous citizenship that informs modern, pluralistic civil societies and in the Hebrew-Christian tradition, with its emphasis on compassion for others and respect for the dignity and worth of all persons.

The Commons is designed

1. to be an integrated and coherent core curriculum that establishes intellectual common ground through a series of courses and experiences employing both theory and practice
2. to incorporate innovative pedagogies that will develop students' abilities as engaged learners in both the classroom and the community
3. to develop the knowledge, skills, perspectives, and practical wisdom crucial to effective citizenship. Most specifically, Tusculum seeks to graduate individuals who will become engaged in their communities in various ways and who will seek justice and the common good.