Living the UC Mission
Productive work. Enlightened Living. Community Involvement.
We Are All Golden Eagles
At the University of Charleston, our mission is clear: to prepare each student for a life of productive work, enlightened living, and community involvement.
That mission comes to life every day as UC students rise to challenges, broaden their perspectives, and give back—on campus, in Charleston, and around the world. We encourage our community to engage with issues of diversity, justice, inclusiveness, and global citizenship, turning values into action.
Two signature initiatives highlight this commitment: Labor of Love Community Service and Enlightened Living Days.
Labor of Love
While many spend Labor Day resting, Golden Eagles are out serving. Each year, nearly 1,500 students, faculty, and staff step into the community to lend a hand through Labor of Love.
Projects range from playground painting and landscaping to preparing meals, supporting local nonprofits, and even washing fire engines.
No matter the task, students discover the joy of service and the impact of working together to strengthen the community.
Enlightened Living Days
Enlightened Living Days invites the UC community to slow down, listen, and learn.
Through conversations, workshops, and shared experiences, students explore contemporary issues—especially those outside their daily lives. The goal is simple: broaden understanding, foster compassion, and discover practical ways to make a difference.
By viewing challenges through new lenses, our community grows stronger, more connected, and better prepared to lead.
