University of St. Thomas

CommUNITY Week’s purpose is an illustration of St. Thomas’ Convictions to respect, affirm and value human dignity and diversity across campus. The presence of intellectual and cultural activities -- both in and out of the classroom -- is consistent with and central to the university's broader mission. The CommUNITY Week concept originated from the creative suggestions put forward by several diversity work-groups to the Office of Institutional Diversity in spring 2006. Our theme is consistent and purposeful: "Respecting, Affirming, and Valuing the Greater Mosaic." In the spirit of unity, a number of individuals, offices, clubs and organizations come together to support programs designed to embrace the dignity of all men and women, and to celebrate the human mosaic and cultural diversity on our campus. These programs are intended to promote civility, community and collective responsibility.

Focus for this Year

CommUNITY Week is an excellent time to reflect on the important roles that art, culture, spirituality and learning have in our lives. It is a time for the University of St. Thomas and Twin Cities communities to share and exchange through formal and informal networks.

In its third year, CommUNITY Week has turned the spotlight on the vital contribution that culture and spirituality make in learning and in life. Music, faith, books, theater and dialogue about uncomfortable issues are a part of daily life and have a lasting impact. They inspire and challenge us and broaden our horizons. We respect the Ramadan and Rosh Hashanah religious traditions as we reflect and celebrate.

The third annual CommUNITY Week celebration will begin Sunday, Sept. 28, with an Ecumenical Gospel Music Celebration fundraiser in the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas. As a learning community rich in faith and heritage, it is important that we work toward uniting our community through a greater sense of shared spirituality. The Office of Institutional Diversity (OID) continues to support St. Thomas' strategic priorities of access, excellence and Catholic identity.

One goal of the OID is to improve and enhance campus climate through a number of intentional initiatives. One way to do this is to fortify our humanity in the name of God through gospel music. Music is a universal language that transcends social status, ethnic origin, gender, generation, faiths, culture and background.
The Ecumenical Gospel Music Celebration fundraiser is a diverse program that features gospel music performed by a mixture of Twin Cities musicians and choirs. Funds raised will benefit diversity and access initiatives in the Office of Institutional Diversity.

Award-winning artists performing in this celebration will include: Bruce A. Henry , Debbie Duncan, T. Mychael Rambo and Yolande Bruce. Henry will serve as guest director and Rambo as master of ceremonies. The Hallel Praise Team Ministry from Holding Forth the Word of Life Ministries International and the Voices of Unity Choir from Pilgrim Baptist Church will join in this jubilant celebration from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, in the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas.

Legendary editor emerita of Essence magazine, Susan L. Taylor, also will headline CommUNITY Week. Taylor has empowered the powerless and provided hope for "all God's children" through her famous "In the Spirit" columns. She is an accomplished author, editor, humanitarian and national spokeswoman for National Cares Mentoring Movement.