Our Mission Statement

Founded in 1939 by the Sisters of Saint Dominic, Caldwell University promotes intellectual, spiritual, and aesthetic growth to a diverse population and welcomes all cultures and faith traditions. Inspired by St. Dominic de Guzman and our Catholic heritage, we transform students’ lives by preparing them through the liberal arts and professional studies to think critically, pursue truth, and contribute to a just society.

Core Values

The CORE values of Caldwell University emanate from the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, the life of Saint Dominic de Guzman, the Charism of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, and the Four Pillars of Dominican Life. In response to St. Dominic’s desire to pursue “truth” through education, Caldwell University commits itself to the following CORE values:

RESPECT

Respecting the sacred dignity of all creation, we call ourselves to have responsible relationships with each other and with the earth. We value diversity and believe it enriches the University community.

INTEGRITY

We commit ourselves to honesty and professional excellence in all interactions and relationships.

COMMUNITY

Valuing relationships, collaboration, and inclusivity, we extend this spirit through intentional connections within the campus community and beyond.

EXCELLENCE

Aware that each person has a role in creating a just and compassionate global community, we seek to develop a love for lifelong learning and a commitment to the search for knowledge, truth, and solutions to problems.

August 2026

Dear Caldwell University Students,

Welcome to a new academic year at Caldwell University! Whether you are a new or returning student, we are excited to have you as part of our community.

As you begin this journey, we encourage you to embrace every opportunity for learning, growth, and connection both inside and outside the classroom. Through academics, student organizations, athletics, internships, service, and campus life, your experiences at Caldwell will help shape your future and strengthen your sense of purpose and community.

The Student Handbook will be an important resource throughout your time at Caldwell University. It contains valuable information about University policies, procedures, resources, and opportunities that support your success. All students are responsible for knowing and following the information outlined in the handbook, so we encourage you to review it carefully and refer to it often.

At Caldwell University, we are committed to educating the whole person and fostering intellectual, personal, emotional, and spiritual growth. Guided by our Catholic identity and Dominican tradition, we proudly uphold our core values of Respect, Integrity, Community, and Excellence.

Most importantly, know that we are here to support and champion your success every step of the way. We are honored to be part of your educational journey and look forward to an exciting and rewarding year together.

Sincerely,

Anthony M. Grosso
Dean for Student Life

Academic Calendar

For the most up to date academic calendar information, login to the myCaldwell portal: https://my.caldwell.edu/ICS/Calendar.jnz

Caldwell University Traditions

New Student Convocation

A long-standing tradition at the beginning of each fall semester, Caldwell University formally receives and welcomes new undergraduate students into the academic community.

Mass of the Holy Spirit

Early in the fall semester, the University community gathers for the Mass of the Holy Spirit. With this liturgy, we welcome new students, faculty, and staff.

Caldwell Day

Inspired by the life of St. Martin de Porres, the Caldwell community puts its Catholic Dominican mission into action for a day of service.

Advent and Christmas Traditions

Caldwell University celebrates the birth of Christ with a variety of ceremonies and activities.

Mass of Saint Thomas Aquinas

Caldwell University opens the spring semester by asking for the blessing and intercession of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

Social Justice Symposium

The annual Caldwell University Social Justice Symposium is an academic conference that aims to educate Caldwell University constituents and community partners regarding issues of social injustice.

Founder’s Day

Each year, on the Wednesday closest to the Feast of Saint Joseph, Caldwell commemorates the founding of the college in 1939 and remembers the legacy of its foundress, Mother Joseph Dunn, O.P.

Caldwell Research and Creative Arts Day

Each year, in April, the Caldwell University community gathers to enjoy a poster presentation event displaying the research and creative work of our undergraduate and graduate students along with the creative and research endeavors of our faculty, staff and alumni.

Honors Convocation

Toward the end of each spring semester, prior to commencement, the Caldwell University community gathers to recognize the outstanding academic achievements of its students.

Commencement

Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral recipients who participate in the commencement ceremony are individually announced to cross the stage during the conferral of degrees at Commencement.

Baccalaureate Mass

Prior to Commencement, graduates and their guests, faculty, staff, and students gather for a Eucharistic liturgy to celebrate.

Hall of Flags

When new international students matriculate, if the flag of the country of origin is not yet displayed in the Hall of Flags, a flag raising ceremony is held and the community gathers to learn more about our new community members.