"The Department of Athletics provides varsity competition opportunities for the student-athletes of Dominican University who have the experience and talent to compete at the intercollegiate level regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or orientation. The overall mission of the department is to provide an experience that will enhance each participant's level of self-esteem, self-motivation and self-actualization through mental and physical training, team dynamics and competitive participation. It is intended that the benefits derived from the sport experience will positively impact many aspects of the student-athlete's life and will serve as a complement to the rigorous academic environment of Dominican University."