Among the most powerful examples of experiential learning is living in a community. At Sterling, we engage in compelling and meaningful learning experiences as we care for our campus and for each other. Together, employees and students — no more than 150 total people — provide for the College’s needs with the understanding that by working collectively, we sustain our community and ourselves. Through thirteen Touchstones, We create opportunities for connection and exploration and share knowledge and tools so that we may safely experience belonging, challenge, and growth. 

1. We believe in caring - for ourselves, for each other, for this place, for other living beings, and for the planet.

2. We understand we are collectively growing and learning and healing.

3. We honor the sacredness of our space and all community members. We do not accept behaviors that cause harm.

4. We listen to understand.

5. We curiously engage with our growing edges. Discomfort is often part of our growth.

6. We speak our truths: we are honest with ourselves and each other. 

7. We commit to being accountable for the impact of our actions. We recognize that we sometimes make mistakes and ask our community to call on and support us as we step into accountability. 

8. We make every effort to address disagreements and hurt feelings as soon as we are able. 

9. We practice informed consent in all things. We recognize body autonomy while also prioritizing the health and safety of all members of our community.

10. We value confidentiality. We build trust and relationships by honoring each other’s stories.

11. We turn toward connection and wonder.

12. We endeavor to bring our healthiest self to all we do.

13. We value laughter, play, and rest, alongside our work and learning. 

As you can tell, our approach encourages compassion, care, and reflection, focusing on student development through individual growth and personal accountability. Our Student Life programming is rooted in transformative justice practices and values. As such, the processes for addressing issues are designed to balance the rights of the individual with that of the health and safety of the community. We aim to support students as they become the people they want to be in the world. We are committed to providing the tools, resources, and support for students to make informed decisions about their lives and interactions within the community.

Student Life at Sterling supports an authentic return to a kind, vibrant, and welcoming living and learning environment where individuals' voices are heard, respected, and supported through resolution, while also responding to and dismantling systems and practices of bias, oppression, and harm within our own community.