Quaecumque Sunt Vera ("Whatsoever things are true") is from St. Paul's letter to Philippians (4: 4-9). The remainder of the verse continues: "...whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report. If there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things."

StFX has upheld a commitment to the intellectual and spiritual development of its students. Its motto is to preserve and convey "whatsoever things are true." StFX extends this motto beyond academia to the individual person. Integrity, dignity and respect for the worth of each individual are important concepts in the university's search for truth.