In fidelity to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church, Rosary College holds that all human beings are created in the divine image and, therefore, possess inalienable dignity. Because of this foundational belief, Rosary College opposes unjust discrimination and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex, color, disability, national or ethnic origin, or status as a veteran, in the administration of our policies and programs, and vigorously supports these seven protected classes as written in the federal statute. This statement applies to our academic program; to all policies and procedures concerning students and student activities; and to all personnel and administrative policies.
As an institution of higher education in the Catholic faith tradition, Rosary College is protected by the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) and the First Amendment. Rosary College may consider religion in hiring, admissions, and other decisions. Nothing in this policy shall require Rosary College to act in a manner contrary to the beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church or the mission of the College. Rosary College does not support individual interpretations that expand the protected classes.
Note that all members of the College community are regarded as male or female according to their biological sex at birth and are expected to present themselves as such to their community. The College regards Catholic teaching on human sexuality as a matter of religious doctrine and reserves the right to consider issues of human sexuality in hiring, admissions, conduct policies, and other decisions under the protection of RFRA and the First Amendment.
As a matter of upholding Catholic teaching about human dignity and not as a matter of civil law, Rosary College does not discriminate with respect to admissions on the basis of family responsibilities, e.g., whether any prospective student is pregnant or has the care of young children; whether a married prospective student plans to have children; or whether a prospective student has the responsibility to care for an aged parent or disabled sibling.
All members of the Rosary College community, as well as involved third parties (including vendors, guest speakers, visitors, and independent contractors), have an obligation to abide by this non-discrimination policy.