Campus Life, Campus Facilities, Campus Services

Athletics - Intercollegiate

The mission of the Department of Athletics is to uphold the mission of Samford University within the context of a continually improving, competitive, diverse, and NCAA-certified athletics program. The athletics department is responsible for the administration and implementation of an intercollegiate sports program that competes in NCAA Division I. In the fall of 2008, Samford began its inaugural season as a member of the nation’s fifth-oldest NCAA Division I collegiate athletic association, the Southern Conference. The 17 intercollegiate sports sponsored by Samford University are:

Scholarships

Athletics aid is awarded in all of Samford’s varsity sports, primarily to student-athletes specifically recruited for that sport by the coaching staff. Students who were not recruited, but who are interested in participating in varsity sports, may contact individual coaches concerning opportunities. Coaches’ contact information may be found at www.samfordsports.com.

Schedules

Schedules for all sports are distributed across campus and posted on the website at www.samfordsports.com. All times are Central. All dates and times are subject to change. Contact the Office of Sports Information at (205) 726-2799 or 2802, or visit www.samfordsports.com, to confirm schedules before making special plans.

Ticket Information/Procedures

Currently enrolled Samford students are admitted free to any Samford Athletics ticketed sporting event. Students must show their current Samford ID at the ticket window for individual events. Guest tickets may be purchased at the ticket window on game day or online at www.samfordsports.com. Ticket prices will be posted at each event.

Samford students are encouraged to support the Bulldogs on road trips as well. Ticket availability will vary depending on our opponent. Full ticket prices will be charged for away games as they are sold on consignment for opponents. Contact the athletics department concerning specific contests.

Spirit Program

Cheerleading: The main objective of Samford’s Cheerleading program is to work within Samford Athletics to create an atmosphere of enthusiasm among students and fans. Samford cheerleaders represent Samford University and its athletics program through performances at athletics events as well as at campus and community events. Tryouts are held each spring.

Mascot: The mascot, Spike, appears at athletics events as well as student and community activities in order to build enthusiasm and recognition for Samford University. Spike is a visual representation of the spirit and pride of Samford University and one of its most beloved inhabitants. Tryouts are normally held in the spring.

Exact dates and times for cheerleading and mascot tryouts may be found at www.samfordsports.com or by contacting the athletics department.

Athletic Facilities

There are a variety of athletics and recreational facilities at Samford University.

Seibert Stadium hosts home football games in the fall. The facility is equipped with a synthetic turf football field. Athletics facilities also include the Samford Track and Soccer Stadium across Lakeshore Drive, Joe Lee Griffin Baseball Field, the Samford Bulldog Softball Field, the Pat M. Courington Tennis Pavilion, and the Sullivan-Cooney Family Field House for football.

The Pete Hanna Center is home to the 5,000 seat Thomas E. and Marla H. Corts Arena. It is the venue for Samford volleyball and basketball, as well as for commencement and other major events. In addition, the Hanna Center is the day-to-day home of the Samford athletics department, and also features a state-of-the-art fitness center for the University community.

Availability for Student Use

Some facilities are generally available for use by students in the afternoon through the evening, except when athletic events or practices or Campus Recreation events are scheduled. A schedule of specific hours is available on the Campus Recreation website at https://www.samford.edu/campus-recreation/.

Student IDs are required to use all recreational facilities. Inspection of IDs will be made to ensure that only Samford University students, staff, and faculty are using the facilities. Please cooperate when asked to produce your ID card. In this way, the facilities may be kept available for your use.

Campus Bookstores

The main campus bookstore is located on the first floor of the Beeson University Center. The bookstore is owned and operated by the University. Classroom textbooks, supplies, computer supplies, Samford University logo clothing, gift items, and sundries are available. The bookstore is open during the school year Monday-Thursday, from 7:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; on Friday, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Campus Recreation

The mission of the Department of Campus Recreation at Samford University is to provide recreational programs and outdoor adventure activities that will enhance the social, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical, and vocational needs of students, faculty, staff, and their spouses in an environment of Christian values. Campus Recreation strives to promote learning, fun, friendship, leadership development, and sportsmanship in a Christian environment by offering quality competitive and noncompetitive activities, employment opportunities, and equipment rental. Campus Recreation employs students as facility supervisors, office assistants, intramural sports officials, fitness instructors, Alpine Tower and Carolina Climbing Wall facilitators, lifeguards, and weight room monitors. There are also opportunities for advancement within the department.

Seibert Gym and Bashinsky Field House

Housed in these facilities are three wooden basketball courts, four racquetball courts, a game room with two pool tables and two ping-pong tables, indoor walking track, dance studio, indoor pool and locker facilities. A current Samford University ID card is required for access to all areas.

Pete Hanna Fitness Center

The fitness center is located on the upper level of the West side of the Pete Hanna Center. This state of the art facility has eight treadmills, eight ellipticals, and four Lifecycles bikes, all with their own personal televisions. Also in the cardio room are several Signature Series Strength Machines. The center also features a free-weight room equipped with Hammer Strength equipment. The fitness center is open to all current students, faculty, and staff members at Samford University.

Intramural Sports

The intramural sports program offers many different activities for all levels of ability. Current offerings are basketball, 3 on 3 basketball tournament, billiards, bubble soccer, dodgeball, flag football, soccer, softball, spikeball, table tennis, tennis, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, and 4 on 4 volleyball. There are opportunities for participation in state, regional, and national competitions as well.

Fitness Programs

Classes are offered Monday through Thursday to students, faculty, staff, and spouses for no charge. Hula hoop, kickboxing, jazzercise, spin, step, and Zumba are offered for any level of participant. Varied combinations are utilized to challenge every participant.

Alpine Tower and Carolina Climbing Wall

The Alpine Tower creates challenges and group problem-solving events suitable for any group. The tower is a 50-foot high structure, offering over 30 different climbing routes with varying degrees of difficulty. The tower provides an effective method of fostering leadership development, teamwork, trust, communication, and cooperation among a group of participants. The Carolina Climbing Wall is a 50-foot high structure with windows that allows social climbing on both sides of the wall. Whether a first-time or a seasoned rock climber, there is a route marked for everyone.

Sport Clubs

Sport Clubs are student-founded and student-led with the director of campus recreation serving as advisor. Clubs include Rugby, Women’s Ultimate, Swimming, Soccer, Bass Fishing, Men’s Ultimate, Men’s Lacrosse, Women’s Lacrosse, and Samford Crew.

For more information on all programs, check out the Campus Recreation website at https://www.samford.edu/campus-recreation/.

Career Development Center

The Career Development Center (CDC) is designed to help current students and Samford graduates with a variety of career and job search activities. Counselors are available to assist students through every step of the career development process. From identifying and evaluating areas of interest to choosing majors, writing résumés, preparing for interviews, and making decisions about graduate school, the CDC is well-equipped for assisting students and alumni with their career needs.

The CDC also acts as a connecting link between students and employers for part-time, summer, internship, and full-time positions. Throughout the semester the CDC sponsors on-campus recruiting activities, including information tables, on-campus interviews, industry speakers, targeted career fairs, and more. In addition, students can access jobs listings through the online job posting system, www.hiresamford.com. CDC services are provided free of charge to current Samford students and alumni.

Clubs/Organizations

Samford University students are encouraged to select from the more than 100 student organizations for their co-curricular and curricular experience. The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement provides support, leadership training, and resources to student organizations. Students can find a complete list of student organizations at www.samford.edu/leadership.

Greek Organizations

Greek Life at Samford is like no other community. Sororities and fraternities at Samford are purposeful-we serve our community and give to righteous causes because that’s what Samford is about. We are faithful-we live out our faith through fellowship and everyday grace. And we are real-we support each other’s journeys through college and life. As members of fraternities and sororities we take lifelong oaths to care for each other and the world around us. We are purposeful. We are faithful. We are real. We are Samford Greeks.

The Office of Greek Life supports the 15 active fraternity and sorority chapters, three governing councils, and two honor societies currently at Samford University. The Office of Greek Life is committed to a quality fraternal experience encompassing service, leadership, scholarship, and personal development within a Christian values collegiate community.

Each year the Office of Greek Life hosts several events such as educational programming, leadership development, officer training such as community-wide round tables, guest speakers, and the annual Greek Awards program.

Interfraternity Council

The IFC represents five chapters on campus, which are Alpha Tau Omega, Lambda Chi Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Chi, and Sigma Nu. These five fraternities at Samford exist under the umbrella trade organization of the North American Interfraternity Conference.

National Pan-Hellenic Council

The NPHC currently has three of the divine nine fraternities and sororities: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. These three organizations were founded on African-American culture and have a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.

Panhellenic Council

College Panhellenic is made up of six National Panhellenic Conference sororities:  Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Omicron Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Phi Mu, and Zeta Tau Alpha. Delta Xi Phi, Multicultural Sorority, Inc., is an associate member of the council.

Visit www.samford.edu/greeklife or more information regarding the Samford Greek community.

Counseling Services

Counseling Services works to provide comprehensive services to students and members of the Samford community, in a safe, caring, and confidential environment. The counseling staff is committed to meeting the needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds by helping them lead effective, empowered, and healthy lives. Counseling Services offers counseling to students coping with educational, personal, and/or interpersonal issues. The counseling staff helps students adjust to a university environment and to realize their worth and potential. Services include evaluative psychotherapy in individual and/or group settings, referral for long-term personal counseling, couples counseling, study skills help, educational programs, workshops, and lectures.

Counseling Services is located in Seibert Hall. For more information, or to make an appointment, please call 726-2065.

Dining Services

More than just a dining room, the Beeson University Center Cafeteria is a central place in the social life of the University. It is an excellent place for both resident students and commuters to meet new friends and share campus experiences.

All students living in the residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan. All entering freshmen and first year resident students are required to purchase the 19 meal plan. Sophomores may purchase either the 12 or 19 meal plan. Students who have successfully completed 64 credit hours may purchase either the 7, 12, or 19 meal plan.

The Food Court, located on the ground floor of the Beeson University Center, features fast-food services. Each meal plan includes a $130 credit toward purchases in the Food Court and Cafeteria. Commuting students may deposit money to their student ID card which may be used for purchases in the Food Court and Cafeteria, or pay cash for meals at either location.

Disability Resources

In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Disability Resources works to ensure that all aspects of a Samford education and campus life are accessible for students with disabilities. Applicants and students with disabilities are encouraged to learn more about accommodations and the process for registering with Disability Resources by visiting our website: www.samford.edu/dr. Students who wish to request accommodations should contact Disability Resources by calling 205-726-4078, e-mailing disability@samford.edu, or visiting us in the University Center, Room 205.

The HUB

Located in the Beeson University Center, the HUB is the 24/7 service center for campus and a storehouse of information concerning the University and Birmingham activities, etc. The HUB is staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week in order to service the varied needs of the students and the University community. Some of its services include bicycle rentals and processing after-hours maintenance requests. The number for the HUB is (205) 726-2407.

Libraries

Samford offers a wealth of library resources featuring extensive print and electronic collections, as well as multimedia resources that include microfilm, music scores, and audio and video recordings. The online catalog and other electronic resources are available to students 24/7 via the Internet. Other libraries in the Birmingham area cooperate with Samford on a reciprocal basis, increasing the variety of resources directly available to the Samford community.

Samford University Library

The Samford University Library is the primary library for all students, faculty, and staff. In addition to books, e-books, periodicals, unique collections, and electronic resources, the library houses a large government documents collection-serving as an official repository. The Special Collection houses outstanding research materials with particular strengths in Alabama history, Baptist records, and Samford University Archives. Individualized and group instruction in the use of library resources is provided on a regular basis by librarians.

A computer laboratory, computer classroom, individual and group study rooms, multimedia viewing and listening rooms, meeting rooms with advanced presentation capabilities, and a patron-lounge area are available for patron use. The Alfa Presentation Practice Room on the Library’s second floor allows students to practice and record presentations individually or as a group.

Einstein Bros Bagels, on the library’s first floor, offers the perfect spot for refreshment, studying, and meeting with friends and classmates.

The University Library is home to the Marla Haas Corts Missionary Biography Collection, the Alabama Men’s Hall of Fame, and the Hellenic Scholars’ Library.

Lucille Stewart Beeson Law Library

The Lucille Stewart Beeson Law Library provides extensive legal research and study materials for the Cumberland School of Law and the rest of the Samford community. The library contains 13 conference rooms, 474 study spaces, large carrels with electrical and data connections, and more than 30 computers. Online access to current legal information is provided through computer-assisted legal research systems. The book collection contains more than 212,000 volumes, and the microform and audiovisual room provides access to the microfiche equivalent of more than 126,000 volumes.

Drug Information Center

The Drug Information Center is located in the McWhorter School of Pharmacy and serves as a resource center, a drug advisory source for practitioners, and an information retrieval center for students, faculty, and practitioners. In addition to a variety of journals, books and other printed materials, major pharmaceutical and medical databases and many electronic reference materials are available.

Curriculum Materials and Technology Center

The Curriculum Materials and Technology Center is located on the third floor of the Orlean Beeson School of Education. Its primary function is to provide current resources, media, and services to the School of Education students, faculty, and staff as they design and utilize instructional materials for the P-12 classroom. Resources include an Education Library, a Make-and-Take Lab for the creation of curriculum materials, and an Instructional Technology Lab, which consists of computers and instructional software to facilitate learning in the field of education. The center is staffed to provide technical services and assistance to teacher education students as required by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

Global Center

The Global Center, located in the Beeson School of Divinity, features interactive resources that include world population and demographic databases as well as foreign language news broadcasts that assist students as they prepare for service throughout the world. (See Beeson School of Divinity  in this catalog for more information.)

Music

The Division of Music in the School of the Arts offers a variety of opportunities for students to participate in vocal and instrumental ensembles. These courses are open to music majors and non-music majors.

VOCAL:

University Chorale - MUSC 1720 : Performs a cross-section of quality literature in major concerts and University events each year. No audition is required.

A Cappella Choir - MUSC 1721 : Performs both regionally and internationally, as well as for important University functions throughout the year. Auditions for membership in the A Cappella Choir are held before July 1.

Samford Opera - MUSC 1723 : Performs one mainstage production of opera or operetta each year. Auditions for fall productions are typically held the previous spring. All majors are welcome.

Opera Workshop - MUSC 1724 : Performs scenes from opera and musical theatre each semester. No audition necessary for music or musical theatre majors. Students with other majors are welcome but will need to audition.

INSTRUMENTAL:

Wind Ensemble - MUSC 1730 : Performs wind band literature as the premier concert band for the University. Admission by audition or consent of director.

Orchestra - MUSC 1731 : Performs standard orchestral literature, operas, oratorios, concerti, and musical theatre shows. Admission by audition only.

Marching Band - MUSC 1739 : Performs at home football games, one away game, and a high school marching exhibition in the fall. Membership is open to all with previous band experience; marching experience is not necessary. Nonmusic majors interested in band scholarships must audition by December 15 for priority consideration for awards.

CHAMBER:

Bells of Buchanan - MUSC 1732 : Performs original compositions, transcriptions, and arrangements on six-octaves of handbells. Auditions for 13 ringers are held each August.

Jazz Ensemble - MUSC 1732 : Performs big band and small combo literature from various jazz styles. The performance season includes featured concerts that take place both on and off campus. Admission is by audition or recommendation of the director.

Percussion Ensemble and Samford Steel - MUSC 1732 : Performs a wide range of works on various percussion instruments. Members must have considerable skill on percussion instruments ranging from drums and timpani to mallet instruments and some ethnic percussion. Members will also perform on steel drums, but prior experience on these instruments is not required for membership. Membership is by audition.

Post Office

The post office is located on the first floor of the Beeson University Center, adjacent to the Food Court. All U.S. mail services are provided here, including registered, certified, and insured mail, stamps and postal money orders, and Express Mail Next-Day Service. An inter-office campus service is available for mail to students, faculty, and staff free of charge.

All undergraduate students are assigned a campus post office box. This box serves as the official local address for undergraduate students. Graduate students are not assigned a box. Students who are not enrolled at the University or are studying at the Daniel House London Study Centre during Jan Term or summer terms must provide the post office with a forwarding address.

Public Safety and Emergency Management

Information about Public Safety

Samford University maintains a Department of Public Safety (SDPS) as a proprietary function of the University with jurisdiction to enforce the rules and regulations of the University on University property. SDPS is staffed 24 hours a day to provide immediate availability for emergency response, performance of security patrols, monitoring of people on campus and providing other services relevant to the campus community. Members of the department maintain a close working relationship with local, state and federal law enforcement authorities and other emergency service agencies on matters related to the safety and security of the campus. Any incidents involving suspected criminal activity or violations of University rules and regulations related to the safety and security of people or property should be reported to SDPS. The department maintains records of reported incidents that have occurred on campus. Such statistical data is available for examination. Statistical data is also maintained on crimes that occur off campus for events that are facilitated by a recognized University organization and such events are authorized or sponsored by the University.

Important and Emergency Telephone Numbers

Public Safety (205) 726-2020
City of Homewood Police (205) 879-2101
City of Homewood Fire (205) 879-4701
Emergency/Crisis 911

Campus Relations

SDPS’s primary objectives are protecting life and property, maintaining an efficient parking and traffic system, preventing crime and being of general service to the University community. SDPS provides continuous 24 hour a day, year-round law enforcement and security services to the University.

Campus Communications

Patrol and dispatch services are provided 24 hours a day, with immediate access to municipal emergency services. SDPS’s radio communications cover telephones and two-way radios on a 24-hour basis to give information, respond to emergencies and contact other agencies. Officers and dispatchers can immediately contact the City of Homewood’s Fire Department, Emergency Medical Service, and Police Department by SDPS’s radio system. SDPS monitors the National Weather Service radio network. A campuswide alerting system notifies the campus community of threatening weather conditions. Blue-light emergency phones are located around campus. When the emergency phone is activated, the Department of Public Safety dispatcher is automatically alerted, and an officer is sent to the location of the telephone. No dialing is required.

Campus Services

SDPS is a general service unit for the campus community. The department’s services include but are not limited to:

24 Hour Emergency Response: In an effort to provide the best possible emergency services to Samford’s community, SDPS maintains a close relationship with the City of Homewood Police and Fire Department. Public Safety officers have the shortest response time to any location on campus and are the first responders to incidents on campus. If police, fire or emergency medical services are needed, Public Safety Officers will direct the appropriate service units to the exact location of an incident on campus.

Law Enforcement Service: Sworn Public Safety officers have full arrest authority and are charged with enforcing the laws and ordinances of the State of Alabama and the City of Homewood. Officers conduct investigations into and document all crimes and offenses committed on Samford University property. Safety/security officers are not sworn officers but are charged with enforcing the rules and regulations of the University.

Security Patrols: SDPS continuously patrols the campus with patrol vehicles and foot patrol. The department maintains three vehicles for patrol and escort services. Officers often patrol the campus by walking through the quad and residential life areas.

Traffic Control and Parking Enforcement at Samford University: The Public Safety Department enforces rules and regulations relating to the operation of motor vehicles on campus. All the rules of the road from the city, county, and state, as well as directive signs and instructions by officers directing traffic, are to be observed on campus. The Public Safety Department documents and investigates all traffic accidents occurring on campus.

Nighttime Campus Access Control Gate: At 10:00 PM nightly, the main gate onto campus is closed and all access on and off campus is made at the southwest gate. An officer is posted at the gate entrance from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM to monitor person(s) arriving on or departing from campus. Faculty and staff are issued a campus decal for their windshield that allows access onto campus. All other visitors must show proper identification to gain access onto campus.

Escort Service: Public Safety provides security escorts for all students, faculty and staff. Call the Public Safety office at (205) 726-2020, and an officer will be dispatched to assist you to your vehicle, resident hall, office, or escort you to any safe destination on campus.

Unlocking Vehicles: In most cases, when someone locks their keys inside their vehicle, Public Safety officers will use a door-unlocking device to open their vehicle for them. For safety reasons, the department will not attempt to unlock a vehicle equipped with side-impact air bags. If Public Safety cannot unlock your vehicle, there are several locksmiths in the area that we can contact to assist you.

Jump-Starting Batteries: Public Safety officers will jump-start your vehicle’s battery to assist in starting your battery. The department can also assist in contacting a service center or towing service.

Facility Security: The Public Safety Department will respond to all reports of fire alarms and safety hazards. Administrative and academic buildings are secured as soon as possible after the offices close or, in the case of a classroom building, after the last class of the day. Through routine patrols, Public Safety officers make regular checks of each building to ensure that the buildings remain secure until scheduled opening time. The Department of Public Safety issues Samford ID cards to all faculty and staff of the University.

Do not hesitate to call us if we can assist you. You can visit our website for further information at http://www.samford.edu/publicsafety/.

Publications

Magazine-Sojourn

Sojourn is a literary and visual arts magazine focused on highlighting the artistic expressions of students, faculty, and staff at Samford. Published once each year, students edit and compile each issue with assistance from outside professionals, as well as faculty advisors.

Newsletter-The Belltower

The Belltower is a weekly electronic newsletter that includes campus announcements and other news of interest to students, employees, alumni, and friends of the university.

Newspaper-The Samford Crimson

The Samford Crimson is a student-run, campuswide newspaper. With a circulation of 3,000, it is available free to all full-time, undergraduate students and is distributed at key locations on campus. Published weekly, The Samford Crimson offers excellent opportunities to all undergraduates, regardless of major or experience, who are interested in writing, reporting, editing, as well as in photography and layout/design in the areas of news, sports, commentary, and arts and entertainment. The paper’s advertising department, also run by students, caters to those more interested in the business side of The Samford Crimson and is also open to all students regardless of major or experience. Any student may compete for salaried staff positions.

Yearbook-Entre Nous

Entre Nous is Samford’s student yearbook, available free-of-charge to all full-time undergraduate day students. The paid Entre Nous staff is comprised primarily of students involved in the study of journalism, graphic design, and photography, although staff positions are available to any student. The publication provides an excellent opportunity for students to build a portfolio and gain professional publishing experience.

Radio Station

Serving a major portion of the Birmingham metropolitan area, Samford University’s WVSU/FM-91.1 provides an unduplicated format of smooth jazz in a city that has a long history of great jazz artists. The appeal of the format to the community allows Samford to promote University events from theatre to orchestra, special programs to sports. WVSU is the flagship station for Samford athletics broadcasts. The station’s mass appeal provides an excellent outlet for heightened awareness of the University.

Residence Life

Living on campus in Samford residence halls provides the student an opportunity to develop human relations and leadership skills through community living. Staff in each hall assists students in creating an environment conducive to study, in planning programs and social events, and by serving as peer advisors and resources.

Residence facilities are grouped in four areas: Central Campus, West Campus, West Village, and Beeson Woods. Freshmen are primarily housed in the Central Campus facilities: Vail Hall, Pittman Hall, and Smith Hall.

Rooms are furnished with beds, desks, chairs, chests, and blinds. Students may wish to add approved appliances and decorations. It is recommended this be done in communication with their roommate prior to or after arrival on campus. (Information regarding appliances that students are permitted to have in their rooms will be sent with the notice of room assignment.) Wireless Internet is available in all residence halls. Most rooms also provide students with personal telephone lines and computer portals. (See Student Telephone Service  in the Tuition & Fees - Undergraduate  section of this catalog.) Each room is equipped with a cable TV connection.

Students provide their own bed linens, pillows, wastepaper baskets, and cleaning supplies. Students are responsible for cleaning their own rooms and private/suite bathrooms. Some room personalization is permitted, but students are encouraged to receive the permission of the residence life coordinator and/or residence manager prior to doing so.

The University does not assume responsibility for loss or damage to personal property. Students are urged to consider personal insurance for valuable property they bring to the residence hall.

Residence halls are closed on designated University recesses and holidays including Christmas Break. Students may leave their personal belongings in their rooms but may not remain on campus during these times.

All students living in the residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan.

Residence Hall Regulations

The University seeks to foster a spirit of community, benefiting from the full participation of each campus citizen. The student and the community are best served when the student is available to be involved in campus activities. Experience confirms that students who reside on campus are more likely to be fully engaged in their educational experiences, more likely to establish strong interpersonal relationships, and more likely to learn from group and interpersonal interaction.

To maximize the totality of the undergraduate experience, it is recommended that students live on campus until the completion of the bachelor’s degree. Unmarried undergraduate day students under age 21 are required to live on campus unless they live at home with a parent or guardian.

When a student is assigned a room, the housing contract represents a lease for the academic year. The University commits to provide a room, and the student commits to reside on campus through the following spring term unless the student graduates, withdraws from the University or gets married. Students may not move off campus for any other reasons between fall and spring terms. A substantial penalty is imposed if residents break their lease agreement. A schedule of fees is listed in the housing contract.

Students who are 20 years old, have lived on campus for four semesters, are beginning their fifth semester (typically their junior year), have a minimum 2.50 cumulative grade point average, and are in good standing with the University, may petition the Office of Residence Life to live off-campus.

Students with senior status may live off campus without petition. Undergraduate students 22 years old and graduate students are assigned University housing on a space-available basis after undergraduates are assigned.

During the summer and Jan terms, housing is limited to students enrolled at Samford University during the term, or to students required to be in residence to participate in University-approved activities. During fall and spring semesters, housing is limited to full-time students or to special needs part-time students. On campus housing is not available to students over 24 years of age, without permission from the vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

Standards of conduct and expectations of resident students are outlined in this catalog, the housing contract, and in more detail in the Student Handbook. Students and parents should become familiar with these guidelines and the University disciplinary procedure prior to moving into campus housing. Samford University’s residence halls have been declared smoke-free environments. Smoking is not allowed in any part of the residence hall facility, including the students’ rooms. Students may not keep pets in their room, other than small fish in tanks no larger than ten gallons.

Students are expected to show good stewardship of their rooms and furnishings, and to abide by University policies regarding their housing. A system of fees is established for damage to facilities and failure to follow standard procedures for room change. If imposed, these will be placed on the student’s account. (See Residence Hall Special Fees and Fines  in the Financial Information section of this catalog.)

Samford does not have an open-visitation policy. Guests of the opposite sex are not permitted in student rooms at any time except for specific hours on days that may be designated and approved by the Office of Residence Life. Students may have overnight guests of the same gender with advance approval of the residence manager of their hall.

Community Standards Council (CSC)

The mission of the Community Standards Council (CSC) is to foster and maintain a peaceful and purposeful community within the residence halls. The goal includes educating students in responsibilities and opportunities for community living. The CSC will monitor rule infractions stipulated by the Residence Life Housing Agreement and the Student Handbook. The council consists of seven students.

Samford Information Television Channel

Television channel 36 is the Samford Information Channel. Information regarding the following can be found on this channel: campus events, convocation schedule, sporting events, computer lab hours, library hours, food service hours, athletic facilities hours, weekly weather forecast, inclement weather announcements, and emergency announcements.

Samford Sunday

The purpose of Samford Sunday is to train students in the ministries of preaching. Students can sign up on a week-to-week basis to preach in local Baptist churches across Alabama. This unique ministry is more than 60 years old, and it serves as a vital link between Samford and Alabama Baptist churches.

Samford University Printing

Students are welcome to use the services of the University’s digital print facility. Located in Room 112 of Brooks Hall, it is equipped with high volume color printers/copiers and equipment to meet any printing requirement. The staff can help students with copies, banners, booklets, and posters, without having to leave campus, and at a competitive price. Samford Printing can only accept payment with a Bulldog Bucks account. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 on Friday. Their phone number is 726-2830 and e-mail is print@samford.edu

Office of Spiritual Life

Faith development is an important part of the Christian mission of Samford University. As a student at Samford, you will have the opportunity to develop a mature faith of your own, building on the beliefs you bring here.

The Office of Spiritual Life exists to encourage and equip persons to deepen spiritual maturity, sharpen theological integrity, clarify vocational identity, and embrace missional responsibility. Students will have many opportunities to engage in vibrant worship, experience authentic community and embrace Christian mission. Some of those opportunities are as follows:

Campus Worship: Gather together with the campus community in Reid Chapel every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00am for a time of worship, prayer, encouragement and challenge.

Samford Home Groups: Join one of these weekly meetings hosted in the home of a Samford faculty or staff member and led by a fellow student. Group members will share a meal together, study Scripture, offer prayers and build relationships for the sake of knowing Christ more clearly and walking with Him more closely.

Cadres: These small groups are led by faculty, staff and students for the purpose of theological discussion and spiritual formation.

Retreats: Several retreats will be offered throughout the year intended to create space in the lives of students for the purpose of reflection, rest, and resolve in the serious call to a life of discipleship.

Missions: Take advantage of the resources and opportunities to be a part of God’s work in the world. Participating in missions expands your worldview, puts your faith into practice, and grows your understanding of yourself and of God.

Leadership Opportunities: Students desiring to work with the Office of Spiritual Life on campus can apply to serve as a Samford Home Group Facilitator, Spiritual Life Assistant, Campus Worship Band member, Cadre Leader, or Spiritual Life Intern.

Convocation

The purpose of Convocation is to nurture students in faith, learning, and values from a distinctly Christian perspective. Students are made aware of the Christian worldview and are encouraged to develop sympathy with the Christian mission in the world. Students are provided with opportunities to grow toward spiritual maturity. Convocation events help to cultivate the climate within which transcendent and teachable moments can occur in both formal and informal contexts at Samford.

Convocation offers nurture on an individual level, a corporate level, and a confessional level. First, Convocation provides activities that challenge persons to grow toward Christian maturity. Second, Convocation encourages persons to contribute to the Christian ethos of the University community. Third, Convocation is a formal means by which we-the University-can be who we say we are: a community committed to faith, learning, and values rooted in a Christian worldview.

Convocation programs allow students to satisfy the Convocation requirement for graduation. Incoming freshmen must complete 60 credits to graduate, 30 credits by the end of their sophomore year. Transfer students have their Convocation requirement prorated based on the credits they transfer to Samford from another institution. For more information about Convocation requirements, visit the Office of Spiritual Life website at www.samford.edu/osl.

Student Affairs and Enrollment Management

Student Affairs and Enrollment Management seeks to attract students expecting to enrich their collegiate experience through life-changing educational opportunities and quality University services. We seek to integrate living, learning, and faith to prepare students for a life of Christian service, leadership, and thoughtful engagement throughout the world. Samford’s mission incorporates the life of the mind, emotional balance, physical health, and most importantly, spiritual growth and transformation. Our goal is to recruit and retain student leaders, meet the social, physical, financial, and spiritual needs of those students, and assist them in developing unique talents, abilities, and personal goals for a life of world-changing impact.

Code of Values

Preamble: We as the Samford community affirm the value of a peaceful and purposeful community, founded on the moral and ethical integrity of students and faculty. We commit ourselves to the Christian values on which Samford University was founded. We expect that our commitment to mutual responsibility and a spirit of cooperation will create a community that is orderly, caring, and just.

Worth of the Individual: We value the intrinsic worth of every individual in the community. Our respect for other individuals includes an appreciation of cultural backgrounds different from our own, an understanding of different attitudes and opinions, and an awareness of the consequences of our actions on the broader community.

Self-Discipline: We value personal responsibility and recognize the individual’s needs for physical, intellectual, spiritual, social, and emotional wholeness. We value the full development of every student in terms of a confident and constructive self-image, of a commitment to self-discipline, and of a responsible self-expression.

Integrity: We value a campus community that encourages personal growth and academic development in an atmosphere of positive Christian influence. We affirm the necessity of academic standards of conduct that allow students and faculty to live and study together. We value the fair and efficient administration of these standards of conduct.

Respect for Property and the Environment: We value the rights and privileges of owning and using property, both personal and university, and the benefits of preservation and maintenance of property and of our natural resources. In our stewardship of property, we recognize the accountability of our actions to the future of the Samford community.

Respect for Community Authority: We value our privileges and responsibilities as members of the university community and as citizens of the community beyond the campus. We value the community standards of conduct expressed in our system of laws and value the fair administration of those laws, including university, municipal, state, and federal laws.

Allegiance to these values obligates the Samford University student to refrain from and discourages behaviors that threaten the freedom and respect every individual deserves.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) represents and promotes student interest in the decision-making process of Samford University by cultivating and maintaining leadership among students. The SGA also develops, coordinates, and executes activities and services for the benefit of the students.

The Student Government Association is organized into five branches that provide a wide range of opportunities for student involvement. Each one of the branches is presided over by a member of the Student Executive Board (SEB). The executive branch is made up of the SEB, the Presidential Advisory Council, and the Multicultural Affairs Committee. The legislative branch is the Senate, which appropriates money to student organizations and serves as the voice of the student body. The judicial branch consists of the Student Judiciary Council, which reviews parking appeals and violations of the Samford Code of Values. The development branch consists of Freshman Forum, an interactive leadership seminar for first-year students and undergraduate Class Officers. The events branch is comprised of the Student Activities Council (SAC), which plans and executes most campuswide events and traditions: Welcome Back Week, Homecoming, Lighting of the Way, Summer Send Off, and Harry’s Coffeehouse.

Traditions

Connections: Held the Friday-Sunday before classes begin, Connections is the new student welcome weekend. A variety of activities are held ranging from dinner out in Birmingham and a dance party to campus worship.

Welcome Back Week: Beginning on the Sunday before the first day of classes, Welcome Back Week activities provide opportunities for students to meet new friends and reunite with old ones.  The week kicks off with “Dinner on the Dirt” and a concert and vendor fair, called “Your School, Your City,” and continues through the first week of school.

Homecoming: Homecoming is a celebration of Samford traditions and includes a bi-annual bonfire and pep rally, Homecoming Board decorating competition, tailgating, and football game. The Homecoming Court, which is selected by the student body, is presented at the Homecoming football game. A new tradition, the Homecoming Ball, is held bi-annually. The Student Activities Council works with the Office of Student Activities and Events and the Office of Alumni Relations to produce this event.

Lighting of the Way: One of Samford’s favorite holiday traditions, this event includes the lighting of the Christmas tree at Centennial Walk, a concert, and a reading of The Christmas Story.

Summer Send Off: During the last week of classes, this three-day event brings students together through a variety of fun-filled activities to encourage everyone before exams begin.

Harry’s Coffeehouse: Held on various Thursday nights throughout the semester, SGA presents a variety of musical artists in Harry’s Coffeehouse. Artists range from talented Samford students to popular musicians.

Family Weekend: This event is a family reunion held early in the fall semester. Students introduce their parents and relatives to their friends, faculty, and organizations, as well as enjoy quality family entertainment. The Office of Parent Programs produces this event.

Step Sing: A tradition since 1951, Samford students participate in a song and dance competition, planned, produced, and performed by students. Step Sing is both a major event with over 900 student performers and a philanthropic endeavor supporting a student-selected agency each year.

Technology Services and Resources

Campus Portal Services

All members of the Samford University community have access to a variety of computing resources. A campus Portal via the Internet is the entry point from which all members of the campus community can access academic resources, administrative services, community information, e-mail, and other important services, from anywhere. Some of the administrative resources available to Samford students are: grades, class schedules, and account information. Upon admission to Samford University, students may go to the Samford home page and log into the Campus Portal using the username and password provided by Technology Services through https://pwchange.samford.edu/newuser.

Technology Assistance

Technology assistance is available from the Technology Services Service Desk, which is located in Room 012 of the Harwell G. Davis Library. You can reach the Service Desk by phone, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (205) 726-2662. You may also send a request to support@samford.edu. For hands-on assistance, Service Desk technicians are available Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The computing resources and assistance described here are all free of charge to Samford University students, faculty, and staff.

Technology Laboratories

General access computer laboratories are available to every student, except during times when one or more of the labs are scheduled for classes. Several academic departments or schools also have computing labs that support their specialized needs. The general access laboratories offer a substantial suite of software to assist with word processing, page layout, presentation preparation, and statistical analysis. Each computer in the general access computing labs is connected to the campus network, which is connected to the Internet. This gives every Samford student access to the World Wide Web and other networked resources. For more information about laboratory resources, hours, and availability, see the computer lab page at http://www.samford.edu/labs.

Library Resources

The online catalog for the Samford Library and several additional library-related resources are available via the campus network. Samford is an active participant in the Network of Alabama Academic Libraries and other consortia that enhance the resources available to the Samford community. For more information about library resources, see the Library web page at http://library.samford.edu.

Network Access

Samford University offers wireless network access across the campus, including residence halls and outdoor spaces. This service provides students and employees the convenience and flexibility of using portable devices. Nonresident students may access campus computing resources through an Internet service provider. For further information regarding network connections, contact the Service Desk at (205) 726-2662, send an e-mail to support@samford.edu, or consult the Technology Services website at www.samford.edu/wireless.

Student-Owned and On-Campus Computers

While Samford strives to maintain the best available computer laboratories, students may wish to bring a personal computer, and this is encouraged. Samford does not sell computers, but some computer companies offer direct discounts to Samford students. More information about these discount programs and about minimum specifications for student-owned computers is available from the Technology Services website at www.samford.edu/ts or by contacting the Service Desk at (205) 726-2662, or by sending an e-mail to support@samford.edu.

Microsoft Office 365 for Students

Through Samford’s Microsoft Campus Agreement, Office 365 is available to students at no charge. Office 365 includes the latest version of Microsoft Office desktop client, as well as the web version of Office accessible from anywhere you have a connection to the Internet. You may install Office on up to five personal computers in addition to mobile devices such as tablets or smartphones. Office 365 also includes 1 TB of cloud storage with “OneDrive” to store documents, pictures and other files, which can be synchronized to all your devices with the “OneDrive synch” tool. You may also connect your “bulldogmail” (Gmail) account to the Outlook desktop client. To sign up for Office 365, open a web browser to http://office.com/getoffice365. For assistance, contact the Service Desk at (205) 726-2662 or via email at support@samford.edu.

Further Information via the Internet

For more information about technology resources at Samford University, see the Technology Services web page at www.samford.edu/ts

Theatre

The Samford University Theatre (SUT) offers opportunities for students to be involved in stage productions, backstage and in the audience. Auditions are open for four main stage productions each year, and students have the opportunity to create workshop and experimental plays in a Second Season series. SUT ambitiously tackles plays from every major period in a wide variety of styles, while being dedicated to quality training in a Christian environment.

Transportation Services

Automobiles on Campus

Students are permitted to have a motor vehicle on campus. A student wishing to maintain a motor vehicle on campus must register the vehicle with Department of Transportation Services, pay a registration fee, properly display the parking permit, and comply with appropriate traffic/parking regulations. Failure to comply with vehicle registration requirements, parking regulations, and traffic regulations may subject the vehicle operator to fines, forfeiture of the privilege of operating a vehicle on campus, and disciplinary action.

For more information, visit the Transportation Services  department website: www.samford.edu/departments/transportation.

University Health Services

University Health Services (UHS) provides outpatient health-care services to students attending the University. Staffed by a part-time physician and full-time physician assistant, the clinic provides primary medical care services, including acute care for illness and injuries, health maintenance, and management of stable, chronic conditions. Located on the east side of F. Page Seibert Hall, the clinic is equipped with radiology and an on-site CLIA certified lab. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Payment for Services

Payment is expected upon provision of service and may be made by Visa or MasterCard. Co-pays can also be posted to the student’s e-bill through the Bursar’s office. As a courtesy, we will bill a primary and secondary insurance company when an assignment of benefits is received. The patient is responsible for any balances not paid by insurance carriers. Questions concerning benefits must be directed to your insurance company. Referrals, deductibles, non-covered services and co-pays are the patient’s responsibility. UHS is a participating provider with several health insurance carriers. Please refer to the UHS site at www.samford.edu/healthservices for an updated listing.

Pre-Certification/Referrals

If required by the student’s insurance carrier, pre-certification or referrals must be obtained prior to visiting UHS. This is the responsibility of the student to obtain.

Pre-matriculation Immunization and Health Form Requirements for Domestic Students

All full-time students enrolled in a degree-seeking program are required to submit the Immunization Record to UHS prior to attending class. The record must be signed by a health care provider or health department stamp.

All students living in university housing are required to submit the Health Form in addition to the Immunization Record. The necessary physical examination must be within twelve months of submission to UHS and will only be accepted on the Health Form provided. Student athletes should note that their pre-participation athletic physical will not be accepted in lieu of the UHS Health Form.

Pre-matriculation Immunization and Medical Evaluation for International Students

The International Student Immunization Record and Medical Evaluation form should be submitted to UHS prior to the student’s arrival on campus. The required forms can be obtained through the Office of International Studies or at www.samford.edu/healthservices. All international students, regardless of country of origin, are required to report to UHS upon arrival to campus for tuberculosis risk assessment as only domestic documentation of tuberculin skin testing will be accepted.

Deadline for submission

All required documentation must be submitted to UHS no later than two weeks following the first day of class. Failure to do so will result in a hold on the student’s record and a non-refundable $150 fine. Residential students may also be subject to removal from University Housing if their documentation is not complete by the deadline.