Student Handbook
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Welcome from the Shepherd University President
Dear Students:
The start of the academic year is an uplifting time here at Shepherd. The new academic year affords all of us a clean slate that we can fill with exciting courses, inspiring guest lectures, championship-level athletics, valuable volunteer projects, and fun-filled social, service, and recreational events.
First-year students–welcome to Shepherd! You will find Shepherd to be a hospitable and open campus where you will feel right at home.
Upperclassmen–we are glad you have returned to continue your studies at Shepherd! Please help our first-year students become acclimated to our campus as they begin their studies and life’s new adventure with us.
Shepherd prides itself on civility; please use fair play and courtesy in your treatment of others, on campus as well as in your personal life.
Dedicate yourself to your studies; aspire to make your family and friends proud of you and your accomplishments. You are the next generation of leaders and model citizens.
Become an active participant in the life of the campus through volunteer service, athletics (collegiate and intramural), and membership in Shepherd’s clubs and organizations. You will find that many of the skills you learn outside the classroom will aid you throughout your life and professional career.
I wish you a successful and productive academic year, and look forward to seeing you on campus!
Mary J.C. Hendrix ’74
President of Shepherd University
Welcome from the Provost!
Dear Students:
Welcome to Shepherd University! You have chosen to become a member of the Shepherd community, where faculty and staff support your academic and personal growth. We are committed to helping you make the most of your Shepherd experience and we act on that commitment by providing resources to help you every step of the way. These resources include a first-rate faculty of teacher-scholars, a support staff dedicated to promoting and protecting your academic success, health and safety, and student affairs staff and fellow students working to welcome you to the Shepherd community.
At Shepherd, Students Succeed! I challenge and encourage you, as a student, to get involved and fully engage in this wonderful Shepherd community. We pride ourselves on graduating students who are broadly educated and prepared to meet the challenges of today’s 21st-century global economy.
First, protect your self and others by following the policies outlines in the student handbook. In addition, the handbook has many outstanding resources that include student organizations, business and other organizations in the surrounding area, as well as links to crucial services like financial aid, the registrar, and student support services. Shepherd’s campus is literally woven into historic Shepherdstown, the oldest town in West Virginia. As your neighbors, we also want to respect the historic architecture of the town, and also ensure that our Shepherd campus continues to be a beloved beacon and resource for the community in which we live.
In the coming years, your engagement will be a crucial component as we work collaboratively, making important decisions together for Shepherd’s future. I am counting on your involvement and your support. I look forward to seeing you on campus, on German Street, or stop by Academic Affairs in Ikenberry Hall for a visit!
Have a great year!
Sincerely,
Scott Beard, Provost
EXCELLENCE • INNOVATION • OPPORTUNITY
Academic Affairs: 304-876-5176
www.shepherd.edu/academic-affairs
Welcome from the SGA President!
Dear Students,
Welcome! My name is Danielle Stephenson and I serve as your 2018-2019 Shepherd University Student Government Association President. I am very excited to welcome first- year students and returning students back for what is sure to be an exciting academic year.
Shepherd is home to an incredibly distinguished faculty and staff that are ready to provide you with the best possible education and college experience. The small town atmosphere of Shepherdstown makes the Shepherd experience quite unique. You will find several clubs, organizations, and resources that allow students to seek their goals and passions with ease. The close connections with the local community provide students with a way to be involved outside of Shepherd’s doors through community service and activism. The diverse nature of Shepherd equips every student with the opportunity to broaden their capabilities and challenge themselves outside of the classroom. Our school provides the best environment to grow, excel, and create lasting bonds you will cherish. If you are a first year student, take this opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. If you are a returning student, challenge yourself to new perspectives and ideas. Shepherd is a place to find yourself. Take every opportunity to expand your mind and create lifelong memories.
In September there is an annual Organization Fair that showcases the incredible organizations Shepherd has to offer. Should you not be able to attend, do not hesitate to reach out to the Student Government Association. We can provide you with ample information on organizations and hear student concerns. The SGA office is located on the ground floor of the Student Center. We have weekly office hours so please stop by! We also have weekly meetings on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. in the Storer Ballroom located on the third floor of the Student Center. I encourage you to come to our meetings and I wish you a successful academic year! Welcome to Shepherd!
Sincerely,
Danielle Stephenson
Student Government Association President
Welcome from the Vice President of Student Affairs!
Dear Shepherd University Student,
Welcome! You and your success at Shepherd matter to my colleagues and me. The information provided in this handbook will connect you to resources and guidelines intended to foster your success at Shepherd. Please review and become familiar with the student handbook, and take a few minutes to read the message below.
I believe all students deserve to enjoy a positive experience at Shepherd. We strive to create an environment where you…
- feel welcome, affirmed, and supported while at Shepherd and after you graduate;
- feel free to ask staff and faculty for assistance and receive the support you need;
- feel that everyone at Shepherd wants you to succeed;
- feel that who you are and what you do matters.
I also believe students who follow the four recommendations listed below experience a higher likelihood of success.
- Attend class every day, ask questions in class, and ask your professor to explain anything you do not understand. Be sure to submit your work, even if you didn’t know all the answers. Submit it anyway.
- Seek help the first time you get a low grade, are not sure of a concept in class, or have any question related to your educational journey you can’t answer.
- Engage at Shepherd by joining a student organization, attending an event, or getting a job on campus.
- Socialize and meet other students. Be sure you are attending class regularly. We want you to connect with other students and actively engage in your learning experience at Shepherd.
Remember, you possess the ability to seize what has been made available for you. Shepherd faculty and staff want you to thrive in this environment designed to meet your needs. We believe if you consistently follow the recommendations above and take responsibility for your education you will succeed.
College can be full of excitement and challenges as you balance multiple demands while pursuing your degree. However, the choices you make are entirely up to you. Utilize the resources and suggestions described in this handbook to assist you on your college journey. Call on my colleagues and me to assist you. Best wishes for a successful year.
Sincerely,
Thomas C. Segar, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
Welcome From The Dean of Graduate studies!
Welcome to Shepherd University! I send a warm welcome from the Division’s graduate faculty and staff. Please use this Handbook as a valuable resource during your time as a Shepherd University graduate student.
We are committed to helping create a wonderful educational experience for all graduate students whether attending part-time or full-time. The faculty work to create a graduate culture that commits to life-long learning and the appreciation of knowledge, embraces strong scholarship and creativity, and values service to the community. We create environments where students are learning with and from peers as well as their instructors. We value the diversity of our students and our student-centered approach embraces the lived experiences that each student brings to the classroom.
As graduate students, we recognize the many life responsibilities each of you have. We encourage you to get involved with opportunities within your academic programs and the University in general as your schedules permit. These experiences as well as ones in the local communities can enhance classroom learning.
Know that that Program Coordinators and I are here to ensure you have a rich experience as you work to complete your Master’s or Doctoral degree.
Dr. Richard A. Stevens, Jr.
Dean of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education