The Mission of Monticello College
Monticello College is dedicated to cultivating an education and environment that foster public virtue, induce moral character, and emulate the courage and foresight of the American founding period, preparing our graduates to guard the principles of liberty.
Foster Public Virture
Self-sacrifice and the concept of disinterestedness are synonymous. Disinterestedness is an 18th century upper-class social trait that was honored and valued similarly to the idea of chivalry during the medieval period. Disinterestedness or self-sacrifice is an American quality of character that has nearly vanished from our culture. Dr. Oliver DeMille defines it well in his writings, when discussing another synonymous term, Public Virtue. He states that, “In 1776 the term public virtue meant voluntarily sacrificing personal benefit for the good of society.”
Induce Moral Character
The word “induce” has the connotation of leading by persuasion or example, to influence another. This is precisely what we intend to do—persuade our students to build strong moral character by way of exposure to the liberal arts and service, mentors worth emulating, and an environment that teaches self-reliance and the value of the power of observation.
Emulate Courage and Foresight
Our national history is replete with examples of bravery and prudence, perseverance and wisdom, tenacity and ingenuity. However, current American society is seeing these virtues disappear in a drought of cultural Americanism. 18th and 19th century American education was the primary source of the courage and foresight we wish to have our students re-discover. It is to that example we turn to reclaim the bravery and public virtue of America's founding period.
Guard the Principles of Liberty
Defending the philosophy that the only reliable basis for sound government and just human relations is Natural Law is a fundamental purpose of Monticello College. Liberty is the political state in which rights are protected. Liberty can only exists when there is a citizenry of freedom loving people. To this end we strive.
Summary
Monticello College aspires to create a citizen-legacy of New American Founders. Its graduates, regardless of their station in life, are trained to approach all challenges and opportunities from a perspective of independent intellect and self-reliance within a framework of cooperation and conscientious service.
