Saint Louis University, founded in 1818, is a private, church-affiliated university. Challenged by outstanding faculty and a modern, value-centered curriculum reflecting the Jesuit tradition, students are prepared to contribute to society and to be effective leaders of social change in the Saint Louis University tradition. Faculty, staff and students are committed to five educational principles: competence, commitment, conscience, community and compassion for others. The university is guided by the spiritual and educational ideals of the Society of Jesus, which accentuate the pursuit of truth, service to humanity and cultural and philosophical diversity. It is the Catholic, Jesuit identity and the character of the institution that make Saint Louis University unique. Its 254-acre campus is located two miles from downtown St. Louis.