A sculpture underneath a stone grotto on campus.

St. Ambrose Catholic traditions and values

Faith-driven education in a welcoming community

Our inclusive environment cherishes Catholic values, while also welcoming a multitude of beliefs and perspectives. We foster a faith-driven education and welcoming community that nurtures values, ethics, and a commitment to holistic learning.

St. Ambrose University’s Catholic identity

Guided by the life and legacy of Saint Ambrose of Milan, St. Ambrose University’s Catholic identity is rooted in seven faith tenets:

St. Ambrose University values

At St. Ambrose University, our values drive our approach to education and inspire a community of belonging.

icon of a bee

Courage

Ambrosians act courageously. We lead with integrity in the face of challenges; we seek truth and justice. Courage prepares us to embrace the intersection of faith and reason, to be open to new ideas while remaining true to our core values.

icon of a lightbulb

Wisdom

Ambrosians seek wisdom. We demonstrate a willingness to learn from others, about others and with others. Wisdom grows from humility. Wisdom prepares us to make ethical decisions, challenge our assumptions, learn from our experiences, and guide our actions.

icon of a head

Justice

Ambrosians work for justice. We labor for the common good, to improve the condition of humankind. We respect the dignity of all living things. We walk in solidarity with the vulnerable.

icon of the globe

Service

Ambrosians serve. Love animates our generous and compassionate service to one another, our communities, our environment, and our work.

Faith-centric campus life

St. Ambrose is home to learners from a variety of backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. You don’t have to be Catholic to feel at home on campus. But all learners are invited to live our Ambrosian values, acting with courage, seeking wisdom, working for justice, and leading lives of service. Explore the ways faith inspires our students, from campus ministry to student groups.

Campus Ministry

Campus Ministry at St. Ambrose offers a diverse range of supportive, guiding, and friendly groups. Our ministry is all about helping you find your way, offering advice, and creating a feeling of togetherness.

We have one or two Peer Campus Ministers (PCM) living in each of our residence halls as representatives of the campus ministry team. Whether you're looking for guidance, a place to explore your beliefs, or simply seeking companionship, our resources are here for you.

Chapel & worship

Our chapel and prayer spaces at St. Ambrose are peaceful places designed for quiet contemplation and spiritual practice. These serene corners on campus offer you a peaceful escape — a quiet refuge where you can reflect, find solace, or engage in personal worship.

While primarily for spiritual practice, these spaces are also open for anyone seeking a moment of calm or a place to gather their thoughts. Whether you’re inclined toward a specific faith or seeking a peaceful atmosphere, our chapel and prayer spaces welcome you.

Explore chapel and Mass schedule

Embracing faith and fellowship

St. Ambrose University offers a spectrum of groups and events that align with faith-based interests and values. Engage in fellowship, discussions, and activities that resonate with your beliefs, or explore different faith perspectives in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

Students can take part in vibrant celebrations, engaging discussions, and enriching events that honor and celebrate our shared values. These gatherings not only foster spiritual growth, but also encourage open dialogue, cultural exchange, and community engagement.

Contact Campus Ministry

Explore student groups

Spiritual retreats

Whether you are seeking personal growth, or a deeper connection to spirituality and faith-based values, our retreats offer moments of sharing and introspection. Engage in activities designed to foster personal development, enrich spiritual understanding, and connect you with others on similar paths. Retreats range from short sessions to weekend getaways, and are integral parts of our commitment to nurture holistic growth and foster an environment where everyone can delve into the core tenants of our beliefs.

Contact Campus Ministry

arches icon

Catholic identity in education

At St. Ambrose, our commitment to Catholic teachings extends into how we teach our students. We infuse career-oriented skills with core values in all our classrooms. Each faculty member embodies and instills values like respect, inclusion, compassion, integrity, and community-building into their teaching practices. This integration enriches the academic experience, empowering students with a deeper understanding of ethical decision making, social responsibility, and building a supportive and inclusive community. From the classroom to the workplace, we foster a values-driven approach to shape not just careers, but also compassionate leaders who are dedicated to positive change in their career fields and communities.

Find my program

Get ready to make a difference!

Earn a degree that not only prepares you for a fulfilling career, but also inspires you to make a real difference in the world.

Service & community outreach

Service is at St. Ambrose’s core. Through community outreach, students embrace social responsibility and lend a helping hand to create positive change. Students engage in service learning initiatives and volunteer projects that foster personal growth while benefiting our local community. They can choose to experience the life-changing impact of an immersive week-long Spring Break Service Trip. Students discover firsthand the impact they can make on lives and communities through their actions.

Two students holding yard work equipment while volunteering in the community

Have questions about Catholic values? Get answers here.

Nurse poses for a photo outside of a hospital.

Explore the possibilities at St. Ambrose

At SAU, the Fighting Bees are encouraged to explore every opportunity to grow and learn, finally becoming the person they are meant to be.