CORE VALUES
The Heart of Hartwell Divinity School
ILIS
Intelligent leadership results in innovative service, and cycles back through each distinct pillar below, supporting our core values.
Intelligence
“God is no fonder of intellectual slackers than of any other slackers. If you are thinking of becoming a Christian, I warn you, you are embarking on something which is going to take the whole of you, brains and all.” — C.S. Lewis
In this context, intelligence is something to be cultivated and we define it as “the collection of information” and “the skilled use of reason.” Hartwell students will be equipped with the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills, and understanding essential to making wise and logical choices throughout their lives.
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom” (Proverbs 4:7).
“An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge” (Proverbs 18:15).
Leadership
“If we are to better the future we must disturb the present.” — Catherine Booth
As intelligent, listening learners, Hartwell students will be equipped to consider and regard the needs of those around them in collaborative service, enabling them to produce and ignite valuable contributions to society.
“For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 24:6).
“…let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves” (Luke 22:26).
Innovation
“We are too young to realize that certain things are impossible… So we will do them anyway.” — William Wilberforce
As intelligent leaders, Hartwell students will be equipped to adapt creatively to changing times. Grounded in timeless wisdom, our commitment to innovation ensures we remain at the forefront of our vocations and ministries.
“Behold, I will do a new thing…” (Isaiah 43:19).
“Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings…” (Proverbs 22:29).
Service
“Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.” — Leo Tolstoy
Through intelligence, leadership, and innovation, Hartwell students will be equipped and motivated for effective service in their local communities and around the world.
“…serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13).
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).