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Mission, Core Values & Vision

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Mission, Vision and Core Values chapel building

OUR FAITH

Ohio Northern University celebrates and affirms its 125-year, active affiliation with the United Methodist Church. Our mission and values are rooted in the Church’s foundations and mission, and we welcome persons of all faiths in a supportive environment for their moral and spiritual growth.

MISSION

Ohio Northern University integrates the liberal arts with professional programs to foster critical and creative thinking, including real-world application. We cultivate knowledge, character, and purpose in students to prepare them to build successful careers and improve the world.
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Mission, Vision and Core Values student signing rock

CORE VALUES

• Community
Our motto, Ex diversitate vires (out of diversity, strength), highlights that we are a purposeful, open, and caring community that values collaboration, mutual respect, and personal relationships. Our collective engagement strengthens learning, the integration of liberal arts and professional programs, and institutional impact.

• Academic Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in teaching, learning, scholarship, and professional practice, providing equitable opportunities for critical and creative thinking, interdisciplinary exploration, experiential learning, and preparation for successful careers.

• Character 
We uphold integrity, ethical responsibility, and respect for others, which fosters an environment of trust and dignity that supports meaningful interactions and professional conduct.

• Service and Leadership
We embrace service, civic engagement, and professional responsibility as essential to good leadership, which prepares members of our community to make valuable contributions to their professions, communities, and the world.

• Spiritual Growth 
Our historic affiliation with the United Methodist Church shapes our commitment to welcoming persons of all faiths in support of moral and spiritual growth.
Mission, Vision and Core Values students

VISION

Ohio Northern University’s vision is to be among the best private, comprehensive universities in the nation, known for programs of excellence and distinction and recognized for effectively integrating arts and sciences disciplines, professional studies, high impact learning, and civic engagement.
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Ohio Northern University

525 South Main Street Ada, OH 45810
419-772-2000

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