The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement hosts a variety of leadership programs and provides resources for both organizations and individuals.

Student Leader Spotlight

The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement seeks to recognize Samford students for their outstanding contributions to campus and community through the Student Leader Spotlight program.

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to nominate student leaders by submitting the form. Nominations will be accepted on a rolling basis and a committee will select one or two students for each month’s spotlight. Nominations must be submitted by the end of the month to be considered for recognition the following month. For example, nominations submitted by February 28 will be considered for March's Spotlight.

Nominated students are not required to hold “official” leadership positions. The purpose of the spotlight is to recognize students who may not receive recognition otherwise. The committee is looking for students who have recently demonstrated outstanding leadership on campus or in the community. Depth and intentionality of leadership, as well as uniqueness of the student's contribution, will be considered when selecting spotlight recipients.

Nominate a Student Leader

Coffee Talk Series

The Coffee Talk Series is a monthly event designed to inspire Samford students to grow in their leadership through casual and meaningful conversations with Christian leaders. The series aims to offer open dialogue and active participation with the students. Coffee and refreshments will be available to the first 40 students who register each month through Bulldog Central. The registration link for each Coffee Talk will be available on a monthly basis. Students should check Campus Connections and their email for updates on when registration opens.

LEAD Samford

Lead Samford is a leadership training day designed to inspire and equip Samford University student leaders with the leadership skills necessary for effective and impactful service. Through a range of educational and experiential opportunities, the program focuses on developing key leadership competencies, fostering a sense of responsibility, and encouraging a commitment to serving others. Participants engage in activities and training that prepare them to lead with confidence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Leadership Cadres

The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement leads small group leadership cadres each semester to help students engage in leadership principles through a Christian lens. The Leadership Cadres help students explore leadership skills and learn practical ways to incorporate Christian leadership in their daily lives. Cadres meet one-hour weekly for approximately eight weeks. Students sign up through Bulldog Central.

Leadership Certificate Program

The EXCEL Leadership certificate program encompasses a multifaceted approach to develop and augment student leadership over the course of three years. EXCEL aims to equip, excite and cultivate emerging leaders to develop critical skills in leadership and service.

EXCEL emphasizes the importance of Christian leadership and prepares students for leadership now and in the future.

Year One Focus – Students attend a series of leadership competency workshops designed to enhance individual leadership capacity and equip emerging leaders. Workshops seek to help students understand themselves as they improve communication skills, learn conflict management strategies, time management, decision-making, resilience, vocational discernment, résumé and CV writing, MBTI assessment, goal setting, True Colors training and SRLS.

Year Two Focus – Students participate in a mentorship program with professors, administrators, alumni and community leaders. Students meet regularly with their mentor to help shape leadership skills, build leadership capacity and encourage faith development.

Year Three Focus – Students engage in servant leadership projects to apply leadership skills, develop critical thinking skills, build relationships with community partners, network, participate in vocational training and incorporate service-learning experiential opportunities.

To apply, students should complete the EXCEL application in Bulldog Central, provide references and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Upon acceptance, EXCEL participants will attend an orientation to review program objectives, requirements and important dates. At the completion of the program, students earn a certificate in leadership.

Immersing oneself in inspirational and education resources promotes personal growth and development. Students are encouraged to explore the EXCEL recommended reading list, suggested social media accounts and follow leadership podcasts.

Bulldog Central Assistance

Need help navigating Bulldog Central? Request assistance using the link below:

Link to Training

Leadership Awards