"Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged."
From the Northwest
Ordinance of 1787
Inscribed on the façade of Angell
Hall, U-M Central Campus
The University of Michigan Division of Student Affairs (DSA) recognizes and understands that religious and spiritual beliefs contribute to the overall well being and the educational experience of students. We endeavor to create a climate that is welcoming and supportive of this significant dimension of many of our students’ identities.
In order to facilitate this aspect of our students’ lives, DSA
maintains an ongoing relationship with the Association
of Religious Counselors (ARC), an alliance of local religious and
spiritual workers serving the University of Michigan community. ARC is
committed to the central role of spirituality and religion in the development
of whole human beings and healthy communities.
Resources for Students
Students who wish to locate religious and spiritual organizations on campus and in the local community can begin by visiting the ARC member list. While this is not a complete list of all local resources, organizations that choose to become members agree to abide by ARC guidelines and to provide resources and events specific to the needs of students. Members of the University community who desire a central campus location for spiritual or religious contemplation may use the Reflection Room in the Michigan League. Developed with the assistance of ARC, the room is a place where students, faculty and staff may mediate, pray or otherwise engage in quiet thought while close to classes. Similar rooms can be found at Pierpont, Haven, and the Chemistry building.Students desiring more direct interaction with the University regarding their religious and spiritual needs may contact the Office of the Dean of Students, which is prepared to assist students on a person-to-person or person-to-group level. The Dean of Students’ Office offers students a centralized location for access to knowledge of the University on policies, procedures and community life, and to staff who can help. These resources are shared with students wishing to navigate the vast University system in pursuit of their educational and personal goals.
The University’s Policy on Academic and Religious Conflicts is designed to be supportive of students’ religious and spiritual needs and commitments in the context of an academic environment particularly around religious holidays. Students with questions about this policy may contact the department chair or dean of the school. In addition, the Office of the Ombuds offers a confidential and safe environment for students seeking resources, referrals, options for consideration, or resolution to problems around academic/religious matters.Any student organization may register with the Office
of Student Activities & Leadership (SAL), which has as its primary
mission the development of effective student organizations and leaders
through training and education. Student religious and spiritual organizations
are encouraged to register with SAL. Member organizations can take advantage
of numerous benefits, including advising, event planning assistance, and
a resource library. The annual SAL fall showcase also gives member organizations
the opportunity to share information about their group to the greater
student community.
Commitment to Diversity
Student Affairs is committed to creating an environment where students can learn from each other’s similarities and differences. The SAL student organization showcase is only one of many opportunities for students to be exposed to and to interact with the diverse elements of the University community. Since exposure to diversity is an essential ingredient of a University of Michigan education, DSA participates in the academic mission of the University by nurturing a learning environment in which religious and spiritual, and other differences in beliefs are respected, and their expression is valued. By appreciating the value of each student, we ensure the academic wellbeing and success of the entire campus community.DSA Contact Information
Questions for the Division of Student Affairs may be sent to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at assist-me@umich.edu. For more information about the offices of the Dean of Students, Ombuds, or SAL, contact these areas directly.Office
of Student Activities and Leadership 734-763-5900
Office
of the Dean of Students 734-764-7423
Office
of the Ombudsman 734-763-3454
Office
of the Vice President for Student Affairs 734-764-5132