Executive Order on the Military

Dear Campus Community,

Yesterday, a Presidential Executive Order was signed requiring the Department of Defense to create policies prohibiting openly transgender individuals from enlisting or serving in the military. This action reverses a previous order allowing transgender people to serve openly. We recognize that this change may directly affect members of our community, including Seattle University students currently serving as ROTC cadets.

At Seattle University, we are deeply committed to the Jesuit principle of cura personalis—care for the whole person. This principle calls us to see the dignity and humanity of every individual, which affirms that all people, regardless of their circumstances, must be treated with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Discrimination against any person, including LGBTQ individuals and transgender people, stands in opposition to both our mission and our Catholic, Jesuit values.

We hold profound respect for those who serve or have served in the military, including the members of our ROTC program, military affiliated and veteran students, faculty, and staff and our alumni who live lives of service and sacrifice. St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, began his journey of transformation as a soldier, embodying courage, discipline, and dedication. Inspired by his legacy, we are called to support and honor those who serve, while working to ensure that they are treated with dignity and fairness.

As we await further details of the Presidential Executive Order and assess its implications, we want to assure our community that Seattle University will stand with and support those affected. To that end, we are committed to honor ROTC scholarships for any student impacted by this order.

In these challenging moments, let us remain steadfast in our mission to uphold human dignity and accompany one another with compassion and care. Together, we will continue to build a community where every person is welcomed, valued, and supported.

Respectfully,

Eduardo M. Peñalver
President

Tamara A. Herdener
Senior Vice Provost for Academic and Student Affairs