On 22 November 1963, the Board of Regents of the State of New York chartered the Rensselaer Newman Foundation as an educational non-profit corporation, defining its purposes as follows:
To establish and maintain non-degree course in theology, philosophy and related subjects
To foster and provide extracurricular programs for Catholic students attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
To foster and provide scholarships, fellowships and other student aids
To foster and develop the intellectual and moral life of Catholic students through religious education, cultural activity and social participation
The By-laws of the Rensselaer Newman Foundation expand the Foundation’s purposes (through the Chapel + Cultural Center) to include:
To provide a facility for religious services and celebrations of all faiths
To provide those cultural and spiritual opportunities which complement what is being done
To provide a meeting place for campus and community related group
To offer limited pastoral counseling services
The inspiration for the Rensselaer Newman Foundation’s work lies in its motto “God is the Measure of All Things.” This simple statement directs all the efforts of the Foundation for RPI students and for the campus and community that nourishes and supports these students. The Foundation’s goal is to provide nurturing experiences for Rensselaer students, while at the same time providing a framework for students to explore, and even challenge, their beliefs. The Foundation continues to challenge us all to commit to integrated personal, professional and spiritual growth in service to God through service to the global human family.
