Mission Statement
Rider University welcomes students from throughout the region, across the nation, and around the world who seek to be challenged and supported as active members of our inclusive and vibrant living and learning community. Committed to student growth, transformation and leadership, we connect rigorous academic, artistic and professional programs of study with a rich array of learning experiences that engage students inside and outside the classroom.
We prepare graduates to thrive professionally and to be lifelong independent learners and responsible citizens who embrace diversity, support the common good, and contribute meaningfully to the changing world in which they live and work.
The Rider Promise
Our students, alumni, faculty, staff and administrators live the RIDER PROMISE by being forever:
- P - Prepared to contribute meaningfully to the changing world in which they live and work
- R - Respectful of all people, rights, freedoms and individual differences
- O - Open to a life of independent learning
- M - Motivated to be responsible citizens who support the common good
- I - Innovative, creative and resourceful
- S - Skilled and thriving professionals, educators, artists and performers
- E - Engaged in their communities as leaders and role models
The Rider PROMISE visually represents the University’s mission. It was introduced in connection with our 150th anniversary celebration, which embraced the tagline Fulfilling the Promise, a phrase inspired by Andrew J. Rider himself, who in 1883 declared that the University’s future was “full of promise.” The PROMISE was developed in response to student feedback, offering a values-based, memorable way to express Rider’s ongoing commitment to purpose and potential.
Vision
Rider University aspires to be a premier, forward-looking university known for its distinctive Engaged Learning Program. Together with dynamic academic programs, enriching co-curricular experiences and a vibrant living and learning community, this signature approach challenges students, excites their imaginations and instills in them excellence in thought and action. Our aim is to prepare Rider students for deeply engaged, fulfilling personal and professional lives.