An Essential Question

Throughout recorded history, those aware of themselves as travelers upon a spiritual journey have always pondered an essential question: “How can I live a loving, committed, and productive life in this world while being true to my spiritual quest?”

Bridging the Spiritual and the Physical

Since the University of Santa Monica is dedicated to the practical application of universal teachings, we continually use this question as a reference point for the relevancy of our educational process. And no matter how many times we ask this question, we always arrive at the same answer: “I can be true to both aspects of my journey by learning to love my Self unconditionally, by sharing my love in my relationships with others, and by demonstrating excellence and integrity in all my endeavors.”

Thus, the arena of Spiritual Psychology emerges as a common denominator bridging between the spiritual and that aspect of the spiritual we often refer to as the physical world. We are constantly rediscovering that by enhancing and refining our relationship with our Self and others, students, faculty, staff, and volunteers alike experience relevancy, meaning, fellowship, and intimacy. It is this educational process of refining our relationships that results in achieving program competencies.

In particular, we are confirming the principle that the content of what we share with each other is far less important than the context of “how” we share it. We are perceiving the importance of our “state of awareness” as a filter for all communication. We are learning the art of “how” to more effectively approach each other for the maximum benefit of all concerned.

The Heart of Education is the Education of the Heart

Another area we find ourselves involved in is that of meaningful and enduring human values. We see ourselves strengthening our individual integrity, accepting personal responsibility, and honoring our agreements with our Selves and others. We are acutely aware of the need to provide relevant educational experience, which empowers students to successfully find their way once they leave the University.

As we move forward, our basic challenge remains one of providing an educational environment within which students and teachers alike are discovering our own answers about who we truly are. At the same time, we are also developing the skills and strategies for being personally effective within the context of current global reality.

By carefully blending universal spiritual values with academic excellence and practical skill development, we enthusiastically look ahead with a willingness to be responsive to the needs of the future. An unconditionally loving attitude is the ultimate competency. It is with this purpose in our hearts and minds that we offer the University's current programs.

With Blessings of the Heart,

Drs. Ron and Mary Hulnick
President and Chief Academic Officer