Mission and Values

DOSL Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of the Dean of Student Life is to foster and celebrate student engagement, learning and success by:

  • helping students navigate Portland State University;
  • cultivating student responsibility and leadership;
  • promoting a diverse and respectful learning community;
  • providing leadership for specific programs and services; and
  • advocating on behalf of all students

DOSL Statement of Values

We exercise care and equity in all relationships.
We foster a culture of fairness embraced by empathy and care.

We maintain and promote a community that celebrates diversity and fosters civility and respect.
We are committed to promoting and modeling diversity in all its forms. We strive to hold positive regard for all with whom we interact.

We seek self-awareness and engage with authentic communication that fosters credibility and clarity of understanding.
As lifelong learners we cultivate and access opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue to foster mutual understanding and respect.

We engage in collaborative leadership for value-added initiatives as advocates for student success.
We collaborate to benefit from a shared vision, expertise, and to utilize resources effectively. We partner with students to create a safe and supportive learning environment.

We offer opportunities for student leadership development and civic engagement.
We place a premium on the evolution of individuals' capacity to engage effectively in community leadership.