Posted by William Nunnelley on 1999-11-05

Samford University has been recognized for leadership in student character development by The Templeton Guide: Colleges that Encourage Character Development for two exemplary programs that "make a difference in the lives of students."

Samford's First-Year Program and its Civic Education Program were selected as "representing the best practices in the field of character development during the college years," according to the 1999-2000 guide published by The John Templeton Foundation of Radnor, Pa.

The First-Year Program, directed by Dean of Freshmen Amanda W. Borden and former Dean Marlene M. Reed, "encourages students to establish challenging academic, social, and spiritual goals for their lives," said The Templeton Guide. The program includes orientation programs, an issues-oriented preschool retreat, a mentoring program and a core curriculum which emphasizes problem-solving skills and teamwork.

The Civic Education Program, directed by Vice President and Dean of Students Richard H. Franklin, emphasizes character development, academic integrity, spiritual growth and responsible citizenship. It is founded on Samford's Code of Values, which includes such aspects as the worth of the individual and respect for community authority.

"Samford's strong commitment to character development and the strength of its program make it a model for colleges and universities nationwide," said Dr. Arthur J. Schwartz, Director of Character Development at the John Templeton Foundation.

 

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.