Newcomer Orientation Valuing Ignatian and Creighton Engagement (NOVICE)

Short Program Description:

The Newcomer Orientation Valuing Ignatian and Creighton Engagement (NOVICE) Program is a two-semester mission-formation program for new faculty, staff, and clinicians at Creighton University. Delivered in small, facilitated groups, NOVICE introduces participants to Creighton’s Jesuit, Catholic mission, history, and Ignatian spirituality through reflection, dialogue, and shared learning. Each month combines readings, videos, and group conversations, helping participants to see how their own work contributes to Creighton’s mission and identity.

Program Goals/Intended Outcomes:

1. Articulate knowledge of Creighton University’s Catholic and Jesuit Mission.
2. Demonstrate a commitment to integrating Ignatian values and reflection practices into professional roles.
3. Build community and shared mission identity among new employees across divisions and campuses.
4. Develop confidence in applying Ignatian discernment, reflection, and cura personalis in daily work.
5. Strengthen connections to Creighton’s mission-centered resources for ongoing formation.

How long does it take to complete the program?: Multiple Days

Total Program Length: One academic year

Key University/Other Partners: Office of Mission and Ministry; Human Resources; Division of Community and Belonging; Schlegel Center for Service and Justice; Creighton University Retreat Center; University Communications and Marketing

Funding Source(s): Office of Mission Engagement

Stipends Paid or Other Participant Benefits: Release Time, Other

Other Stipends: Certificate of Completion

Program Material 1: NOVICE Welcome & Information Letter

Program Material 2: NOVICE Sample Sessions

Program Material 3: NOVICE Facilitator Formation

Lessons Learned:

NOVICE continues to demonstrate that formation deepens when learning is relational, reflective, and mission-centered. Facilitators play a crucial role in modeling Ignatian accompaniment, which transforms the experience from orientation to genuine formation. The inclusion of hybrid groups across Omaha and Phoenix has strengthened community and mission coherence across campuses.

Assessment Data:

Pre- and post-program surveys show participants’ increased understanding and ability to articulate Creighton’s Jesuit and Catholic mission. Over 90% report feeling more connected to the University’s identity and more confident integrating Ignatian principles into their work.

Please Provide Any Other Information:

NOVICE, established in 2017, is foundational to Creighton’s mission engagement continuum. It serves as an entry point for deeper formation programs such as the Creighton Colleagues Program (CCP) and the Jesuit Higher Education Faculty Seminar (JHEFS). NOVICE helps ensure every new Creighton employee shares a common understanding of the University’s mission, values, and Ignatian way.

Facilitators are carefully prepared through annual formation sessions that focus on accompaniment, group dynamics, and Ignatian leadership. The training emphasizes presence, hospitality, and discernment, inviting facilitators to ‘walk with’ their groups in the Ignatian spirit of mutual learning. Formation topics include building community, fostering inclusion, leading reflective dialogue, and integrating prayer or silence appropriately within sessions.