About Us

Dignity & Belonging

Where Every Student is Seen, Challenged, Valued 
Inspired by our Catholic, Jesuit mission, the Office Dignity & Belonging unites Prep Nation in forming young men of faith, purpose, and compassion, each seen and valued as an individual. By fostering a community enriched by diverse perspectives, we strengthen every student’s educational journey and prepare them to listen deeply, lead justly, and engage thoughtfully in a global society. At the Prep, inclusion is not an initiative but a way of proceeding, creating a culture of welcome, trust, and belonging that calls all to seek the Magis, walk with others, and build a more just and loving world.
About the Dignity & Belonging Office at the Prep

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  • Living Inclusion — Every Day at the Prep

    At St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are central to forming young men who lead with faith, justice, and compassion. Rooted in the Jesuit mission of developing Men for and With Others, we believe that every student’s dignity is sacred and that each voice strengthens our community. Guided by our Open Wide Our Hearts commitment, we intentionally cultivate a culture of belonging where openness, empathy, and respect shape how we live, learn, and grow together each day.

    Inclusion at the Prep is not a single program; it is the daily practice of who we are as a community.
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  • Our Community: Students, Families, Alumni, and Neighbors

    Students, Faculty, and Staff
    At the Prep, building a culture of belonging is a shared responsibility. We are committed to ensuring that every member of our community feels seen, valued, and supported; so that each person can fully thrive and contribute to the life of the school. Rooted in cura personalis, this work calls us to care for one another and grow together with intention and purpose.
    • DEI Staff & Faculty Committee collaborates to advance inclusive practices, support professional growth, and strengthen community across the school
    • DEI Advisory Ambassadors empower students to shape school culture, lead initiatives, and serve as voices for their peers
    • Cura Cupboard is our shared community fridge, created to help fill gaps in food access and ensure that every member of our community is nourished and supported with dignity
    • Faculty Trainings: All Colleagues Trainings are ongoing  professional development opportunities focused on equity-centered teaching, cultural responsiveness, restorative practices and inclusive classroom practices
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  • What Dignity & Belongin Means at the Prep

    We intentionally cultivate a brotherhood that reflects the richness of the human experience; across race, culture, faith, socioeconomic background, identity, and perspective. This diversity is not separate from our mission; it is essential to it. In our classrooms, programs, and community life, students are challenged to encounter difference with curiosity, humility, and respect. We prepare students not only for academic success, but for meaningful lives in a diverse and interconnected world.
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  • What This Means for Your Family

    At St. Joseph’s Prep, your son will be known, supported, and challenged to grow in a community that values who he is.
    We are committed to:

    • Creating a respectful environment where all students feel safe and valued
    • Facilitating thoughtful, age-appropriate dialogue guided by experienced educators
    • Partnering with families to support student growth and formation

    Our goal is not perfection, but formation; helping each student grow into a young man who leads with empathy, integrity, and purpose.
The Mission of St. Joseph’s Prep—a Catholic, Jesuit, urban, college preparatory school—is to develop students' minds, hearts, souls, bodies, and character in their pursuit of becoming Men For and With Others.
Mrs. Nailah Givens she/her
VP, Dignity & Belonging
215.978.1001
Celebrating Excellence

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  • Bakari Awards

    The Bakari Awards is an annual awards ceremony recognizing the academic and leadership achievements of the Prep's Black, Indigenous, Latino, and Asian American Pacific Islander scholars. Each year we recognize outstanding students, faculty/staff, and alumni who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership in their fields.

    Each year, we recognize individuals who exemplify excellence in the classroom, leadership in the community, and a commitment to uplifting others.

    A highlight of the ceremony is the presentation of the multicultural graduation stole to our senior honorees. This moment symbolizes their transition from students to distinguished alumni and invites them into the network; continuing the lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and brotherhood.
Resources

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  • Bias Reporting Form

    We are committed to fostering a community rooted in dignity, respect, and accountability. The Bias Reporting Form provides a space for students, faculty, staff, and families to share experiences related to bias within our community.

    Reports are reviewed with care and intention. Our goal is not only to address and resolve incidents, but also to repair harm, promote learning, and strengthen our community.

    The insights gathered help inform meaningful programming, guide data-informed decision-making, and support ongoing education around diversity, equity, and inclusion—so that we can continue building a more just and inclusive Prep.

  • Propelling Prep: Inclusive Best Practice Form

    At the Prep, inclusive excellence is something we actively build together. The Propelling Prep Form is a way to recognize and celebrate community members whose actions, leadership, and care help bring our mission to life.

    By uplifting these moments, we highlight what it looks like to create a culture of belonging—one where every member of our community is seen, valued, and supported.

Guiding Documents

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Address

1733 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19130
Phone Number: (215) 978-1950

Resources

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