Our Shared Purpose
ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ University was founded in 1942 with the mission to provide opportunity to the young people of Ottawa. Since that time, the university has been committed to serving the needs of its global community and making a positive impact in the world.
Today, that commitment is stronger than ever. And it is a commitment we share with you—ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´’s cause-driven community of donors, alumni, partners and friends.
Together, through the interconnected pathways of education, research and community action, we are making tangible progress on society’s most pressing challenges.
We are creating lasting change in key social areas—our purpose areas—like health and wellness, environmental sustainability, social fabric and the new, inclusive economy.
This is our shared purpose.
Through education…
We equip the next generation of learners and leaders to create positive impact.
Through research…
We advance knowledge that helps solve complex global problems.
Through community action…
We help address tangible needs now.
Health and Wellness
Healthcare is an increasingly important topic to many Canadians. In light of a variety of sector-wide challenges—from funding, to staffing shortages, to access and an aging population—it is critical to take a proactive, holistic approach to physical and mental health and invest in system-wide solutions that address barriers.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, alumni, and friends, ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ is striving to advance this cause through research, partnerships, education and on-campus initiatives. We take care to foster a culture of wellness that equips students, faculty and staff to be ambassadors and advocates for good health—now and into the future.Â
Vibrant Social Fabric
Our social landscape has changed significantly over the past several years. In a time of rising polarization, divide and intolerance to difference, it’s more important than ever to advance the activities and pursuits that ground our communities, strengthen our connections and allow us to better understand each other.Â
By investing in the future of fields like journalism, politics, philanthropy, and arts and culture, and by incorporating equity, diversity and inclusion in everything we do, we are weaving a stronger and more vibrant social fabric—together.Â
Environmental Sustainability
The climate emergency is undeniably one of the most pressing issues of our time. As extreme weather events, droughts and floods, forest fires, and biodiversity loss increase, we recognize the urgency with which we need to develop practical solutions and approaches to adapt to the realities of climate change.Â
Through on-campus initiatives, research and education, ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ faculty, staff and students are leading efforts today that will help future generations become more resilient to climate impacts.Â
New, Inclusive Economy
As the world continues to face increasingly complex challenges, our businesses and workforce will have to adapt to drive lasting economic prosperity. Entrepreneurial thinking, the inclusion of diverse perspectives into workforce challenges, digital transformation and innovative solutions to work practices and service delivery are just a few examples of important considerations within the new economy.Â
With support from its donors and partners, ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ is leading innovative research in areas that have significant, practical applications for diverse markets and businesses. And through entrepreneurship programs and experiential learning opportunities, ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ is preparing students for the future of work.Â