Seattle University Programs
Excellent teaching, supported by high quality scholarship and personalized attention to student learning, ensures an intellectually challenging education. Recognizing that engagement in the world and immediate community creates a robust educational experience, Seattle University recently launched an campus-wide initiative to boost the academic achievement of low-income youth in its immediate neighborhood.
The Seattle University Youth Initiative is a long-term commitment by Seattle University to join with parents, the Seattle School District, the City of Seattle, foundations, faith communities and more than 30 community organizations to help children of Seattle succeed in school and life. Inspired by the work of Geoffrey Canada and the Harlem Children's Zone, Seattle University is focusing its efforts on children and families living in the area served by Bailey Gatzert elementary school.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
As a Jesuit Catholic university we are compelled to serve those most in need, and we are called in a special way to respond to the community of which we are a part. Too many youths in our society are falling behind in school, falling victim to violence and falling short of a college degree. This crisis, which plays out across our nation, is particularly acute right here in Seattle University’s own neighborhood. It is time to lift up the children of our community.
The Seattle University Youth Initiative is a long-term commitment by Seattle University faculty, staff and students from all disciplines to join with parents, the Seattle School District, the City of Seattle, foundations, faith communities and more than 30 community organizations to help children of Seattle succeed in school and life.