The Tenets of Tech

Confidence – a sense of self
Excellence – appreciation for first-rate experiences
Commitment – acceptance of responsibility of the University
Knowledge – understanding of ideas based on actual experience
Integrity – ability to defend, evaluate, or question one’s own belief’s
Respect – acknowledgement of others’ beliefs through personal interaction
Leadership – guidance through service, involvement, and mentoring
Loyalty – faithfulness to values, commitments, and responsibilities
Enthusiasm – excitement for personal characteristics and future
Caring – affinity for beauty, performing arts, and human culture
Hope – belief in future experiences and growth opportunities
Pride – a sense of self-respect

These are the Tenets of Tech.  You can find them embedded in the columns of the new dorms on campus, they are visible on the walls at Memorial Gym,  Woodard Hall, the BARC (the Bulldog Academic Resource Center), the BARC Commons in Davison Hall, the Student Center and Tolliver Hall .

They also encircle the Tenet Medallion.  Each freshman is given a medallion at the Academic Convocation held the first week of Fall quarter.  They deposit their medallions in the waters at the Lady of Mist.  The medallions are then returned to each student as they cross the stage at their graduation.

But most importantly, you can find these intrinsic traits in the faculty and students  at Louisiana Tech University.  Beginning next week , we will begin a new blog series featuring  students chosen by our faculty, who embody a given tenet.  Each of these students was asked to choose the tenet that means the most to them and explain why.  In their own words, you will discover why they chose Louisiana Tech and Kinesiology and what has made their time here unique and special.

The textbook used for FYE 100 (First Year Experience), Convocation to Graduation says the following:

“A college or university is often defined by the traditions, values, and principles established by its leaders over the course of many years and by how effective the leaders infused these concepts into the culture of the institution.   Over time, these concepts become the cornerstone of the institutions’ identity and the pillars upon which its mission and vision are built.  They should also comprise a large part of the student’s personal character as well as serve a guideline for future generations.”

“Several years ago, the Division of Student Affairs identified twelve guiding principles, or tenets, that exemplify the qualities that Tech students should possess upon graduating from this institution.  A tenet is defined as ‘an opinion, doctrine, or principle held as being true by a person or especially by an organization.”

“It is expected that you make a personal choice to dedicate yourself to living these tenets during your academic career at Tech.  It is also a choice that pays rich dividends throughout your life as you continue to personify these tenets personally and professionally.  In essence, these tenets become more than ideas to be learned, they become a moral and ethical compass with which to navigate through life.”

Stay tuned…