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Ignatian Identity

"Forming the formers; teaching the teachers."

The above is the unofficial motto of the Office of Ignatian and Mission Identity at Canisius. The office's purpose is to form faculty, staff, and administration in the Jesuit “way of proceeding,” or the guiding principles of Jesuit education, so as to further the apostolic vision of the Canisius community.

The central characteristics of the Jesuit “way of proceeding” include a deep personal love for Jesus, a contemplative and self-reflective lifestyle, and a missional perspective that sees deep purpose in one’s daily work. The establishment of these values in lay faculty, staff, and administration is essential for the Jesuit education apostolate to continue because of the ever-greater appreciation and need for lay collaborators, who work alongside Jesuits to move forward in mission.

The office attempts to instill these values in faculty, staff, and administration through many intentional programs and relationships, including:

  • Cohort meetings
  • Retreats
  • Discussion groups
  • Ignatian Educator Workshops
  • Spiritual direction

By inviting lay educators to explore their own spirituality through all of these programs, the Office of Ignatian and Mission Identity empowers each teacher to extend those personal faith experiences to students in an informed and engaged way. 

Every four to six years Canisius engages in a sponsorship review process to ensure the best possible academic and formative environment for students, while emphasizing the Jesuit foundation and Ignatian heart of the institution.