The Catholic university’s integral purpose: A multi-dimensional perspective

Abstract

This study examines how contemporary frameworks of corporate purpose can inform the purpose of Catholic universities. It defines corporate purpose as a central objective that provides meaning to members and contributes to societal value, delineating inside-out and outside-in perspectives, and head, heart, and hands dimensions. Applying these frameworks to Catholic institutions, the paper discusses the importance of aligning purpose with Catholic beliefs, fostering intellectual inquiry, moral formation, and engagement with societal challenges. Then, it delves into how Catholic universities integrate organizational purpose with individual purposes both in Catholic and non-Catholic members. It examines the concepts of purpose fluidity and synergy, which enhance alignment between personal and organizational purposes. Strategies for promoting these concepts, such as clear communication and consistent management, are discussed. Ultimately, integrating these frameworks enhances our understanding of the multifaceted role of Catholic universities’ purpose in contemporary society.