Ancient civilizations, their ideas and beliefs have so profoundly shaped and influenced our society that a greater understanding of the past helps us to make better sense of the world around us. For that reason, the Center for Ancient Studies and Archaeology (CASA) at Willamette University, which combines the expertise of faculty with an interest in archaeology and ancient civilizations from more than a dozen different disciplines, has made it its mission to promote scholarly research that enhances our knowledge, appreciation, and enjoyment of ancient cultures.

In the pursuit of this mission, the Center undertakes and supports cross-disciplinary student and faculty research, organizes public lectures and events, funds museum exhibitions, and hosts scholarly conferences.

All the activities of the Center are designed to achieve the following goals:

• To contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of our ancient past

• To support faculty and collaborative student-faculty scholarship and research

• To increase the awareness among students, faculty, and the general public that the study of ancient civilizations offers interesting perspectives on many contemporary issues, such as the current debates on immigration reform, assisted suicide, abortion, gay marriage, civil liberties, the status of women and minorities, sustainability and the environment, and the role of the United States as the sole surviving superpower

• To strengthen Willamette University's academic mission of teaching and service

• To enhance Willamette University's national and international reputation and visibility.