For God, For Learning FOREVER SAMFORD. Building a strong future for Samford University

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1 For God, For Learning FOREVER SAMFORD Building a strong future for Samford University

2 Here, dedicated faculty, staff and students join to create a community of learning and faith like no other. The beauty of Samford s campus is virtually matchless, but it pales in comparison to the quality of our people. From the classrooms and laboratories to the artistic stages and athletic venues, the minds and souls of Samford people make the real difference. Samford people bring the best. They are demanding and compassionate; they know the importance of engaging the world with a faith that calls them to serve. I often say that we drink from cisterns we did not dig and sit in the shade of trees we did not plant. Forever Samford is our opportunity to be water and shade for current and future generations of students, alumni, and employees, and for the local and global communities we serve. There are many great institutions of higher education, but there is only one Forever Samford is a six-year, $300-million-dollar capital campaign. It is the largest undertaking of its kind in Samford s 175-year history. This booklet will tell you more about what we hope to accomplish, and why your investment is critical to our success. Centered on the certainty of Christ, Samford is a place of hope for inspired servant leaders. Please join me in ensuring that Samford continues to prepare and send dedicated, thoughtful, ethical people out into a world that so desperately needs them. Samford University. Andrew Westmoreland, President

3 FOREVER SAMFORD Campaign Goals $60 $90 $300 $90 $60 Places and Spaces Academic Programs TOTAL INVESTMENT Scholarships A Solid Foundation The major giving areas of Forever Samford were determined by you. We asked you in an survey what you were passionate about supporting, and you told us, overwhelmingly, scholarships and academic programs.

4 Scholarships Christ s love and selfless example compel our culture of service and compassion. Samford s mission to nurture persons in their development of intellect, creativity, faith and personhood depends on making the Samford experience available to all students, regardless of their financial resources. Generous scholarships enable us to open our doors to student leaders whose talents and achievements will have a wide influence. The need Although we strive to keep tuition affordable, the total cost of a four-year undergraduate degree from Samford now approaches $160,000. The goal is $90 in new scholarship opportunities. With your support, we can put an outstanding education within reach of future students.

5 For me, coming to Samford was a miracle from day one. Year after year, the Lord continues to provide, and He continues to use you all to do it. It s through your kindness and generosity that my Samford story continues. So thank you! Whether you realize it or not, your gifts are making a difference in my life and are the driving force the Lord is using to write my future. HOLLIE WOODIS 18 JOURNALISM AND MASS COMMUNICATIONS

6 Academic Programs As we grow in size and scope, Samford University s 175-year history is one of academic excellence and leadership. As a private, Christian institution we remain firmly rooted in our identity and mission while continually expanding educational opportunities and experiences for our students. Samford s vision to be innovative in teaching, learning and so does our desire for quality, relevant academic programs. research relies on the strength of our faculty and academic programs. The need Endowed professorships and ample research funds enable us to better support the outstanding faculty we already have and to attract talented new scholars and teachers. The depth and breadth of our rigorous academic programs can continue to grow with your support. The goal is $90 to create new academic resources, programs and centers of learning.

7 As a student, I benefitted from several incredible mentors who made it their mission to see me flourish. Now as a professor, I try to pass that gift of commitment on to my own students. Samford sets itself apart by prioritizing small class sizes, meaningful instruction, and a culture of mentorship and intellectual exploration. As a result, I feel that I can truly guide my students through the process of understanding and development that will help them flourish, not just memorize facts. WOODROW HARTZOG 00, J.D. 03, PH.D. STARNES PROFESSOR OF LAW, CUMBERLAND SCHOOL OF LAW

8 Places and Spaces Beauty is found on Samford s nationally recognized campus. It s in the architecture of our traditional brick buildings and our modern learning spaces. Most importantly, it s in the hearts and minds of our community members. Samford s academic environment inspires us to be our best selves and empowers our pursuit of excellence. The need While our campus is beautiful and functional, many of our facilities are in their seventh decade; they need upgrading and renovation. We are building innovative new spaces to house relevant academic programs that will prepare Samford students to serve where they are most needed. We are also creating new gathering spaces where both campus and community can come together to share ideas and inspiration. Samford s beautiful learning environment enriches the spiritual, intellectual and social development of our community. The goal is $60 to improve existing buildings and construct transformational new spaces.

9 In my decade of work at Samford, I have been blessed by Reid Chapel and its contribution to sacred space on campus. Hosting nearly 350 events annually, the chapel provides a hospitable environment for worship services, music recitals, solemn academic ceremonies, preaching classes and weddings. Refurbishing and improving this space remains a priority for the university as we protect the chapel s architectural distinction and upgrade it for contemporary use. Your support ensures that this beautiful space will remain a welcoming and sacred space for generations to come. MATTHEW KERLIN, PH.D. ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT OF SPIRITUAL LIFE AND UNIVERSITY MINISTER

10 A Solid Foundation Samford University is a complex network of buildings, land and people, all of which take time, and money, to sustain. A solid foundation of support allows us to maintain our campus and frees us to invest in our students and community by growing the reach of our offerings. Samford s future is rooted in strength and leadership. The need It costs $165 million per year to operate a quality university like Samford. Only 70% of this cost is covered by tuition and fees. With your help, we can close this gap and sustain the momentum and progress that has made Samford a top nationally ranked university. The goal is $60 to offset operating costs and keep tuition rates affordable.

11 As a Samford student, I was challenged not simply to find an answer but to seek a solution that will impact humanity as a whole. Coming from rural Goodwater, Alabama, Samford unlocked opportunities that set me on track for my calling as a pastor. The Samford experience was made possible by generous donors and supporters of the university. Donors like you made an investment in Samford, and I was the beneficiary. I believe in Samford University because so many on this campus believed in me. My life has been set on a trajectory of unlimited possibilities because of Samford University. CAMERON THOMAS 14, M.DIV. 18

12 FOREVER SAMFORD There are many ways for you to support Forever Samford, from traditional cash gifts or charitable bequests to giving of your time and talent. Your contribution makes a difference. Please go to samford.edu/giving or contact one of our staff to learn more about how you can be a part of this historic campaign. Andrew Westmoreland President W. Randall Pittman Vice President for University Advancement

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