The Importance of our Values & Expectations

Dear Members,

In any organization, whether a dynamic corporate entity, a dedicated non-profit, or a vibrant community group—clarity of purpose and unity are not just beneficial; they are essential for thriving and achieving meaningful success. One of the most impactful instruments for cultivating these vital elements is a Values and Expectations Statement. This foundational document not only articulates the core values and expected behaviors but also paves the way for creating a positive, productive environment where everyone can thrive.

Too often, we overlook the fine print that hangs on our walls or resides quietly in our catalogs. It’s imperative to recognize the significance of our Values and Expectations Statement, a document that encapsulates our collective commitment to a shared vision.  Following are answers to two crucial questions that underscore the importance of why we have a Values and Expectations Statement followed by our current Statement.

What is a Values and Expectations Statement?

A Values and Expectations Statement is a formal declaration that articulates the fundamental beliefs and principles guiding an organization. It delineates what is deemed important, how expectations are communicated, and the behaviors that are encouraged.

Why is it Important?

1. Establishes a Clear Direction:
   A Values and Expectations Statement serves as a compass for the organization, guiding decision-making and strategic planning. It helps members, volunteers, and staff recognize what aligns with the organization's mission and vision, ensuring cohesive efforts.
2. Enhances Organizational Culture:
   When values are defined and consistently upheld, they contribute to a strong organizational culture. The purpose is to help foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
3. Promotes Accountability:
   By setting clear expectations, individuals are more likely to take personal responsibility for their actions. When everyone is aware of the behaviors that are expected, the statement fosters a sense of accountability and transparency within the organization.
4. Facilitates Conflict Resolution:
   In any organization, conflicts are bound to arise. A Values and Expectations Statement provides a reference point for resolution. If everyone is aware of the mutual values and expectations, it simplifies discussions, enabling constructive guidance around conflicts.
5. Promotes a Safe Environment:
   Members, volunteers, and staff have a document to reference should conflict arise, with the understanding that the Values and Expectations Statement promotes a safe environment. This clarity can help ensure that any challenging situations are addressed promptly and appropriately.

Having and respecting a Values and Expectations Statement is essential for fostering an empowered, cohesive, and focused organizational environment. It not only lays out a framework for behavior but also helps in cultivating trust, respect, and community among all members.

Osher at CMU - Values and Expectations

Mission: The mission of Osher at CMU is to provide its members with learning and social enrichment opportunities that increase their knowledge, enhance skills and interactions with peers, and increase cultural and social awareness, complementing CMU's leading role in educational, intellectual, and cultural life in the Pittsburgh region.

Vision: Osher at CMU's vision is to be a premier quality source of lifelong learning for
its members through cost effective, short-term, non-credit courses, lectures, field trips,
special interest groups, and other events supporting its mission.

Values: Osher at CMU provides a dynamic, intellectually-stimulating, and participative
environment of continuous learning. To ensure the effectiveness of that environment, we
highly value:

• mutual respect,
• personal and academic integrity, and
• civil discourse.

Expectations and Actions: Osher at CMU expects its participants (members, study leaders, staff, volunteers and prospects) to observe our values. Participants agree:

1. To embrace diverse perspectives on subjects, thereby ensuring vitality, relevance,
   and further learning.
2. To ensure that discourse and interactions are about the course and not the individual.
3. To respect all participants through regular attendance, only at courses for which
   registered.
4. To participate in appropriate ways that help the group to grow.

Osher at CMU holds a high behavioral standard, expecting no personal attacks or other behavior that fails to meet these expectations, including denigrating other’s views or opinions, threatening behaviors, offensive or abusive language, disruptive classroom conduct, sexual harassment or discrimination, and monopolizing discussions.

Anyone who disregards the values and expectations of Osher at CMU may be denied
the privilege of participating in courses and/or other Osher activities even to the extent
of discontinued membership.

We encourage participants in the Osher at CMU community to notify the Executive Director or the Board President if they observe behavior that is inconsistent with our Values and Expectations.

We are committed to fostering a community environment of lifelong learning.