Aggies Think, Care, Act: Living USU's Principles of Community Every Day
At Utah State University, Aggies Think, Care, Act has become a guiding presence on campus. The initiative invites students, faculty, staff and alumni to translate USU’s Principles of Community into everyday actions that foster belonging, respect and care for one another.
The effort is rooted in three values: human dignity, respect and social responsibility. These values call on Aggies to affirm the worth of each individual, welcome various perspectives and take responsibility for creating a healthy campus through service, support and open dialogue.
“These principles call us to action to create a respectful environment for learning and growth at Utah State University campuses,” said Karma Black, chair of Aggies Think, Care, Act and assistant director of the USU Disability Resource Center.
Aggies Think, Care, Act was introduced in the spring of 2010 to support USU’s commitment to civic engagement and to challenge all Aggies to take responsibility for our campus culture. Today, the initiative operates as a university-wide effort, guided by a committee of 30 faculty, staff and students who collaborate on programs, outreach and coordination across campus units
“Our committee helps connect efforts across campus,” Black said. "Each committee member reports on their area of impact, and we collaborate to ensure our work aligns with our principles of community.”
One of the clearest expressions of the initiative is the Aggies Think, Care, Act pledge. “Over 300 pledges have been made in the last month. I'd love to see thousands,” Black said. "I encourage all members of our Aggie community to commit to turning values into action through both small behaviors and broader promises that support the well-being of others.”
This year’s pledges demonstrate a commitment to deliberate, values-based actions. One student pledged to “be a role model for tone and empathy in written communication. It’s easy for online posts to feel curt; adding kindness and respect builds a healthier community. When participating in online class discussions, group projects or even social media groups connected to USU, I will take a moment to affirm someone else’s perspective before sharing my own.”
A faculty member committed to “be intentional in my words and actions to honor the dignity and worth of every individual. I will create a safe space by respecting the differences that exist in community and nurture the freedom of expression for all.”
Other pledges are simple yet powerful, such as smiling at classmates, saying hello to strangers, helping international students adjust to life in Logan and checking in with peers who might feel isolated. Collectively, these actions reflect the heart of Aggies Think, Care, Act.
“This initiative is about building habits of empathy and action,” Black said. “When we think, care and act together, we create a campus where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
Learn more or take the pledge on the USU's Principles of Community page.
Comments and questions regarding this article may be directed to the contact person listed on this page.
