Guilford College

…putting Guilford’s core values to work in the world

We are convinced that what we teach and learn at Guilford College is relevant to the work of making our world a better place. The Center for Principled Problem Solving (CPPS) was created to promote this conviction through hands-on application across our campus and as far as our reach may extend. This notion of principled engagement emanates from our Quaker heritage, rests at the root of our practical liberal arts curriculum, and is given shape through a collectively identified set of core values that include Community, Diversity, Equality, Excellence, Integrity, Justice, and Stewardship.

The CPPS develops and supports classes and programming that apply the theory and practice of Principled Problem Solving (PPS) to complex problems found in the real world. We encourage students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the community to seek creative and substantial solutions guided by our shared values and in conversation with the practical liberal arts as taught at Guilford. The CPPS works cooperatively to identify and enhance PPS efforts across our curricular and co-curricular offerings at Guilford. In these ways, since 2007, the CPPS has been challenging the Guilford community to put our core values to work in the world.

Mission Statement: The Center for Principled Problem Solving creates and supports educational experiences that seek values-based solutions to significant social problems.

PPS at the Center

The Center has developed a variety of creative ways for students, faculty, and staff to put PPS to work in the classroom, on campus, or in the community beyond our campus. Choose from structured programs or develop your own project with the Center to put our core values to work in the world.

PPS across Campus

Before the Center was created or the term Principled Problem Solving was coined, Guilford was doing PPS. Students, faculty, and staff continue to address the worldʼs issues from a values base. Learn more about the ways the Guilford campus is engaged in PPS and how you might become a part of these efforts.

PPS and Alumni

Whether students had a CPPS class or experience, or they developed a values base through another Guilford experience, Guilford alumni are putting Principled Problem Solving into practice around the world. Find out what these women and men are doing and learn how Guilford grads are making a difference.

PPS Needs Partners

The Center is always interested in learning of new opportunities for students to define and address problems using our core values as a guide. If you have a company or organization with a social innovation or change agenda we would be interested in talking with you about mentoring, internship, or guest presentation opportunities. Through our community partners our students become more.