In
the formation of both its curricular and its co-curricular
expectations, Hendrix College appeals to two founding traditions: the
liberal arts and the United Methodist Church. The educational ideals of
both traditions hold that education is not merely about what our
students know but who they become, not about mere information gathering
but character and spiritual formation as well. An educational mission
shaped around these ideals asks those who are learning, and those who
are teaching, to make education speak to the questions of vocation: Why
am I here and what shall I do with my time and talents? Who am I, and
what kind of person should I strive to become? What sort of life’s work
will I find fulfilling and meaningful? Among the things the world needs
done, what is it my enduring passion to do? What does my God ask of
me? Providing programming that encourages and assists students in the
exploration of vocational questions and the consequent discernment of
call is the purpose of the Miller Center for Vocation, Ethics, and
Calling.
The Miller Center provides weekly programs as well as
weekend retreats on vocational discernment; it directs domestic and
international mission trips, supports internships at non-profit agencies
and faith-based institutions, and supervises a scholarship program for
students committed to the exploration of call through service to others.
The Center hosts visiting scholars, supports courses on vocation, and
leads workshops for faculty and staff on the vocation of teaching at a
church-related, liberal arts college.
The Miller Center provides
programming for individuals across all religious and philosophical
perspectives; however, in honor of the Methodist heritage of the
College, some elements are designed specifically to assist those
exploring a Christian vocation, whether through professional ministry or
active lay leadership. Through the Center, students may participate in
a ministry exploration group, apply for support to visit seminaries,
intern with pastors, and attend spirituality retreats.
Several Miller Center programs are pre-approved for credit towards the Odyssey graduation requirement. See the Odyssey Program Guide for details.