Introduction
Soka University of America (SUA) is a private, non-profit liberal arts university located in Aliso Viejo, California. Founded in 2001, the university follows the educational philosophy of Soka Gakkai, a Buddhist lay organization based in Japan. SUA’s mission is to foster a global community of socially responsible citizens, and it aims to do so by emphasizing the values of peace, human rights, and the sanctity of life. In addition to its unique educational philosophy, SUA is home to several interesting and fun facts that make it a fascinating institution to learn about.
Fun facts about Soka University of America
Soka University of America has a unique architecture
SUA’s architecture is one of the most notable features of the campus. The campus was designed by architect and landscape designer, Robert Skinner, and features a blend of Japanese and Mediterranean architectural styles. The campus is designed to evoke a sense of harmony between nature and humanity, which is a central tenet of the university’s philosophy. The campus is also designed to be environmentally sustainable, with solar panels and other green technologies used throughout the campus.
The most distinctive feature of the campus is the Performing Arts Center, which is modeled after the ancient Greek amphitheaters. The Performing Arts Center is a popular venue for concerts, plays, and other performances, and it can seat up to 1,000 people. The center’s design is meant to create a connection between performers and the audience, with the stage surrounded by seating on all sides. The Performing Arts Center is a testament to SUA’s commitment to the arts and its belief in their power to bring people together.
Soka University of America offers a unique curriculum
SUA’s curriculum is also one of its unique features. The university offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts, with concentrations in Social and Behavioral Sciences, Humanities, International Studies, and Environmental Studies. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad-based education that emphasizes critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and global citizenship.
One of the most interesting aspects of SUA’s curriculum is its language requirement. All students are required to become proficient in a second language, and many students choose to study a third language as well. The university offers courses in several languages, including Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, French, and Korean. The language requirement reflects SUA’s belief in the importance of language as a tool for communication and understanding.
Soka University of America is committed to sustainability
Sustainability is a core value of SUA, and the university has taken several steps to reduce its carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability. The campus is powered by solar panels, and the university has implemented a number of water conservation measures, such as low-flow faucets and drought-tolerant landscaping. The university also has a composting program and encourages students and staff to recycle.
In addition to its environmental sustainability efforts, SUA is also committed to social sustainability. The university has a strong focus on community service, and all students are required to complete at least 50 hours of community service before graduating. The university also has a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, where students can volunteer and work with local children.
Soka University of America has a strong emphasis on peace studies
Peace studies is a major focus of SUA, and the university offers several courses and programs in this field. The university’s Peace Studies Program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the causes of conflict and the skills to promote peace and social justice. The program emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural communication, empathy, and collaboration in achieving peace.
SUA also hosts the annual Ikeda Peace and Harmony Lecture, which brings together scholars, activists, and community leaders to discuss issues related to peace and social justice. The lecture has featured prominent speakers such as Nobel Peace Prize laureate Jody Williams and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta. In addition to the lecture series, the university also hosts the Peace Gala, which celebrates the accomplishments of peacebuilders and raises funds for the Peace Studies Program.
Soka University of America has a diverse student body
SUA’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its student body, which is made up of students from all over the world. The university has a strong international focus, with over 40% of its students coming from outside the United States. The university also has a strong commitment to access and affordability, with a need-blind admissions policy and generous financial aid packages.
In addition to its commitment to diversity, SUA also has a strong commitment to social justice. The university has a number of student-led organizations that focus on issues such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. The university also has a partnership with the United Nations Association of Orange County, which provides students with opportunities to engage in advocacy and activism on a global scale.
Conclusion
Soka University of America is a unique institution with a fascinating history and a commitment to global citizenship and social justice. From its distinctive architecture to its commitment to sustainability and peace studies, SUA is an institution that values innovation, diversity, and community. With its international focus and emphasis on critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding, SUA is a university that prepares its students to become socially responsible citizens and leaders in a rapidly changing world.
