The Lipscomb faculty, staff, and administration seek to provide a transformative educational environment in classrooms, labs, internships, and one-on-one faculty-student engagement. At the same time, the Lipscomb community recognizes that a rich and rewarding college experience that helps shape the total person goes beyond a life of study. Student Life exists to create a culture that offers students from any and every background the opportunity to build relationships and discover places to belong. We welcome and orient new students, and also try to build a culture of communal life, whether the student resides on campus or commutes. Student Life settles students into Lipscomb housing and cares for them once they have a room to call home. We welcome veterans and military connected dependents to the Lipscomb community. The Student Life Team maintains life-giving community standards and nurtures a safe and secure environment in which students can maintain good mental and emotional health and be cared for in times of need or crisis. We oversee student engagement through social clubs, student activities, student organizations, athletics, and the Student Government Association, giving many opportunities for relationships, growth, and fun. Through Student Life, we seek to activate bold faith, offering spaces for students to grow spiritually as image-bearers of God and discover their God-given vocation to impact and serve the world. In this way, the entire Lipscomb community is committed to helping a student grow into their whole self, becoming the person God calls them to be.
Spiritual Formation at Lipscomb
The collegiate experience involves a process of formation, an inevitable journey that shapes individuals into certain kinds of human beings, even without a specific goal in mind. At Lipscomb University, a Christian institution rooted in the values and virtues of Jesus, our primary objective is to train students to emulate Jesus in all aspects of their lives. We believe that all students should recognize and respect the central role of Jesus in Lipscomb’s identity, mission, and spiritual formation goals. At the same time, we welcome and invite students from diverse backgrounds, religious or non-religious, and acknowledge the importance of their freedom of choice. Regardless of their faith perspective, we strive to guide students in ways that foster their growth and development, enabling them to become whole, healthy, and equipped individuals ready to excel in their future endeavors.
A partial list of means for pursuing spiritual formation at Lipscomb includes Bible classes; university chapels; service projects and service-learning; mentoring; mission trips; Bible studies; relationships with other students, faculty, and staff; and guest speakers and artists.
The mere presence of the activities listed above doesn’t guarantee meaningful results in spiritual formation. A plan for spiritual formation in a university context must consider three realities:
1) The diverse backgrounds and learning styles of students.
2) The importance of encouraging active engagement rather than passive observation.
3) The need to move from required activities to internalized habits.
Chapels
We believe that the communal pursuit of God is one of our primary callings as followers of Jesus. The Office of Spiritual Formation intentionally creates spaces for community members to engage with God and each other. These spaces are a) communal rhythms, b) small, consistent communities, and c) one-on-one relationships.
The Gathering
The Gathering provides a weekly community rhythm that brings the entire campus together to connect with God through Scripture and worship and to foster intentional connection with one another. Each semester, the Office of Spiritual Formation establishes a specific formational theme that is reflected in the day’s message, complemented by accompanying biblical texts, songs, and spiritual practices. The Gathering is led by faculty, staff, students, and occasionally features guest speakers and artists. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to share Lipscomb community news and keep students informed about upcoming events.
Breakouts
Through Breakouts, we invite students to participate in a smaller, consistent community where they can connect more intimately with God and other community members. Students enroll in their choice between a wide variety of Lipscomb community groups, themes, and group sizes, based on their curiosities, communities, and callings. Students commit to one of these groups each semester to experience consistent community and deep relationships.
Chapel Requirements/Credits
Lipscomb University recognizes the significance of chapel experiences, particularly through the Gathering and Breakouts, in a student’s individual formation. To ensure that every undergraduate student has the opportunity to engage in chapel activities, the University requires a certain number of chapel credits. However, we acknowledge that Christian spiritual formation is a personal decision and commitment, and it cannot ultimately be mandated. Full-time traditional undergraduate students are required to accrue 20 chapel credits each semester by attending chapel credit events, such as The Gathering and their enrolled Breakout. Each semester, Additional Chapel Experiences (ACEs) are offered through collaborative efforts with offices and colleges across campus. These experiences provide additional opportunities to earn chapel credits and offer spiritually formative ways to encounter God, be formed by the Spirit, and embody Christlike character. Attendance is tracked through the iAttended app. Students with conflicts or non-traditional schedules may contact the Office of Spiritual Formation for assistance. For more detailed information on the requirements, please refer to the Student Handbook.
While simply attending a Gathering or Breakout does not guarantee spiritual growth, we strive to make these events as meaningful as possible to encourage active participation rather than mere attendance. The greatest growth occurs when students choose to actively engage in various spiritual practices, such as mission trips, justice movements, prayer walks, helping those in need, time of praise gatherings, or contemplative retreats. Lipscomb offers an ever-expanding array of such opportunities, and those who choose to participate often find their lives transformed in the process.
We understand that our students have a limited time at Lipscomb, and once they leave, they may not be in an environment where they are required to attend Bible classes or chapel. Therefore, our goal is to equip and inspire them to pursue a lifelong path of spiritual formation.
Chapel Notice
Please refer to the Student Handbook.
Student Engagement
The Office of Student Engagement helps every student discover their place, grow, and thrive at Lipscomb. We provide opportunities and a welcoming environment so all students feel they belong and have equal access to contribute to the Lipscomb experience. Contact studentengagement@lipscomb.edu with any questions.
The Office of Intercultural Development (OID)
The Office of Intercultural Development (OID) celebrates what makes you you-helping you embrace your culture, honor others, and build community. Share your traditions, join a club, grow spiritually, and connect across Lipscomb, Nashville, and beyond-we’re here to support you.
Commuter Student Services
Commuting Bison? You belong here. We support and connect 1,300+ commuters with spaces, resources, and events-wherever you live.
Intramural Sports
Intramural sports are a vital part of campus life. Since 1991, the Student Activities Center (SAC) has been your home for competition and recreation. Join fall kickball, sand volleyball, softball, flag football, co-ed indoor soccer, spring basketball, pickleball, outdoor soccer, indoor volleyball, and our Study Day golf scramble. Year-round tournaments include spikeball, cornhole, and more.
Compete in independent or recreation leagues open to all Lipscomb students and approved faculty/staff. Beyond intramurals, enjoy open recreation with two basketball courts, two weight rooms, an indoor track, aerobics room, SPIN studio, and pickleball courts.
Follow @lucampusrec on Instagram to stay connected!
Social Clubs
Social Clubs develop student leaders, create God-honoring relationships, promote campus involvement, and serve others. Approximately 20-25% of undergraduate students are involved in Social Clubs. Currently, there are 8 social clubs overseen by the Office of Student Engagement. The Interclub Council (ICC) and social club advisors play a vital role in working with the deans to provide leadership and direction for the clubs.
Student Activities Board (SAB)
The Student Activities Board is your student-led events team, creating fun programming that brings our community together. We plan inclusive experiences where Bisons connect, celebrate, and make memories-whether it’s your usual scene or something totally new.
Student Organizations
Student organizations help you lead, connect, explore your passions, and find your people. With diverse interests and focuses, there’s a place for everyone to belong at Lipscomb. All students are welcome to join!
Professional and academic organizations, including honor societies, are housed within individual colleges-contact your academic office for details.
Student Government Association (SGA)
The Student Government Association exists to enhance the student experience at Lipscomb University. The SGA Senate is elected by the student body and is composed of four (4) Executive Officers and 28 Class Senators. Each class is represented by seven (7) elected officials (their Class President, Class Vice President, a Class Coordinator, and four (4) at-large Senators) and the Freshman class is represented by seven (7) members of the Freshman Leadership Council.
Residence Life
Lipscomb realizes the importance of providing clean, well-maintained residence halls for students who are required to live on campus. Unmarried students are required to live in one of the campus residence halls unless they meet at least one of the following criteria: students 21 years of age and older; senior students with 90 credit hours; students living with their parents in their permanent residence in the Nashville area; or transfer students. Married students and students over 25 years old are not allowed to live in the campus residence halls. Exceptions must be approved by the Dean of Housing and Residence Life as indicated in the Student Handbook. Contact the Director of Housing at 615.966.6062 for questions regarding housing on campus.
Student Success and Wellbeing
The Office of Student Success and Wellbeing believes that when you start well, you stay well! We are motivated by the reality that students succeed when they begin with a strong foundation and continue to take the steps necessary to care for their holistic well-being, including their social, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. Our goal is to provide the necessary services and experiences to ensure students thrive at Lipscomb. To our office, retention is about more than just numbers but about whole student development and success.
We promote students’ holistic success and well-being and lead retention efforts through intentional programming, education, experiences, services, one-on-one relationship development, and coaching. Our office and staff are committed to providing the right resources at the right time to ensure your success as a student at Lipscomb. This includes connecting to resources on- and off-campus that support overall well-being and providing programming and experiences that promote holistic growth and development.
Areas of responsibility include New Student Orientation programs for both freshman and transfer undergraduate students, coordinated by Corey Shannon, corey.shannon@lipscomb.edu, Assistant Director of Student Success and Wellbeing, Olivia Webb, olivia.webb@lipscomb.edu, who oversees first-year student programming as the Assistant Director of First Year Programs, Director of Student Care, Laura Thorson (laura.thorson@lipscomb.edu), who chairs the Campus Response and Evaluation Team (C.A.R.E.), and Student Care Coordinator Laura Spehar (laura.spehar@lipscomb.edu) who works to support and connect students to resources both on and off campus. Dr. Dannie Russo Woods, dannie.woods@lipscomb.edu, serves as the Dean of Student Success and Wellbeing. For more information about the Office of Student Success and Wellbeing and its services, visit www.lipscomb.edu/studentwellbeing.
University Counseling Center
The University Counseling Center (UCC) offers a variety of free counseling services provided by licensed professional counselors and counselors-in-training under supervision.
Access to our full range of counseling services is available to currently-enrolled University students who need help with a variety of issues. In addition to providing scheduled one-on-one counseling, the UCC accepts walk-in students facing an immediate mental health crisis and can provide referrals to specialized off-campus resources when necessary. The UCC also offers various on-campus education programs, support groups, break-out chapels, and other events that provide opportunities to encourage and support student mental health and wellness campus-wide. In addition, Telehealth counseling is available to students through the TimelyCare resource described below.
Our counseling services are confidential, except where the law requires disclosure (details are available in the informed consent for counseling). No one outside of the UCC has access to a student’s records, and counseling records are not part of the student’s educational record.
To get connected, University students should fill out an online request form found on the University Counseling Center website at lipscomb.edu/counselingcenter. They can also connect through their myLipscomb account or simply by coming into the office for more information. A consultation visit will be scheduled to match the student with an available counselor.
The University Counseling Center is located in the SAC (Student Activities Center), at the corner entrance facing the Allen Bell Tower and the Ezell Center. Upon entering, take either the elevator or the stairwell up to the 2nd floor. The UCC’s phone number is 615-966-1781, and office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F. If you are having a mental health crisis outside of office hours, call Mobile Crisis at 1-855-CRISIS-1 or Lipscomb Security at 615-966-7600 (if on campus). If it is an emergency, call 911.
Timely Care
TimelyCare is a telehealth program for students that provides access to 24/7 virtual mental health care. Services are accessible from anywhere in the United States, with no cost to visit.
Whether you’re anxious or overwhelmed, you can talk to a licensed provider from your smartphone or any web-enabled device. Providers are available to offer mental health support via phone or secure video visits. Check out the FAQs below to learn more.
Q. How can students access TimelyCare?
A. Students can go to timelycare.com/lipscomb to register with their school email address. Students can then have visits from any web-enabled device - smartphone, laptop, or desktop. TimelyCare is available from anywhere in the United States.
Q. Who can use TimelyCare?
A. Any Lipscomb University student
Q. What services are available?
A. The following services are available:
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TalkNow: 24/7, on-demand access to a mental health professional to talk about anything at anytime
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Scheduled Counseling: scheduled options to speak to a licensed counselor
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Psychiatry: services provided by Lipscomb counseling referral
Q. Where can I go to have privacy on campus?
A. Students can reserve study rooms in the library, talk in their car, ask a roommate for some privacy for an hour, or talk to their RHD about other spots in the dorm they might be able to use.
Q. How much does a visit cost?
A. TimelyCare services are free to all currently-enrolled Lipscomb University students.
Veteran Services
Whether a military member, veteran, or dependent, the Veteran Services Office (VSO) will provide the student with personalized support to meet their needs as a Lipscomb student. With over 38 years of enlisted service, our team is here to serve those who have served our country.
Lipscomb, a G.I. Job’s top Military Friendly School and one of Military Times’ Top 25 Best for Vets Business Schools, provides veterans and their dependents with an academically challenging degree program that fits your career goals, along with a Christ-centered community to deepen their faith.
The experienced VSO team is available to students to guide them through any kind of question, from VA benefits to degree programs to student life. We create events specifically designed for veterans - veteran orientation sessions, professional development training, and career placement opportunities. We are committed to coaching student veterans and dependents through each step of the educational journey.
Veterans have created tremendous legacies in this country already. The Lipscomb VSO wants to prepare veterans for the next journey ahead.
Any student veteran or dependent of a veteran wishing to use any form of VA educational benefits at Lipscomb must contact one of the VSO’s School Certifying Officials at 615.966.1117.
Health Services
Health Services is located adjacent to the Bison Inn on the North end of Campus. Our street address is 3705 Ferndale Avenue. Normal hours during the school year are 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with shortened appointment hours during the summer. The clinic is closed on school-recognized holidays. The clinic is staffed by nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and registered nurses. Students at Lipscomb University can conveniently receive health care for acute illnesses and injuries. All health services are confidential unless the student specifies disclosure information.
Allergy shots, TB skin tests, blood tests, and some vaccinations are available in the health center throughout the year for specified fees. Most health insurances are accepted at the health center or a $50 charge. Payment for provider visits, prescription medications, imaging, and laboratory services will be the responsibility of the student or their health insurance. Health insurance is recommended for all students.
All new students must submit their health forms to Med+Proctor. Please see the emails you receive in your Lipscomb email for further instructions. It is required prior to class registration, and incomplete accounts will cause a health hold to go on your record until all documentation has been submitted. For more detailed instructions regarding your Med+Proctor account, please visit https://www.lipscomb.edu/student-life/health-wellness/health-center.
The state of Tennessee requires that all students born after 1956 provide proof of two measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations or a titer showing immunity. If there is no immunity to all three diseases, a booster shot will be required.
For students born after 1979, proof of chickenpox disease (documented date of disease or a titer) or two varicella vaccines is required.
Incoming students who are younger than 22 years of age and who will live on campus must have documentation of a dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4). The dose must have been administered at greater than or equal to 16 years of age. Any student not living on campus who has not received a dose of quadrivalent conjugate vaccine within the past five years may choose to be vaccinated to reduce the risk of meningococcal disease.
All students are required to complete the TB risk factor screening questionnaire that is located on your Med+Proctor account. Some students may be required to submit additional screening in the form of a TB skin or blood test. A chest x-ray must be submitted for any positive skin test. Health Sciences students may have additional requirements outlined by their respective schools or departments.
Athletics
Intercollegiate
Lipscomb University is committed to sportsmanship and fellowship as well as academic and athletic excellence. The Lipscomb University athletic program is an active member of the NCAA at the Division I level and is a member of the ASUN Conference. Lipscomb University competes in the men’s intercollegiate sports of baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, and track and field. Lipscomb University women participate in basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, softball, volleyball and track and field. Lipscomb also offers the finest in athletic facilities. The 5,000-seat Allen Arena hosts Lipscomb basketball and volleyball, serves as home for chapel and houses the athletic department. Ken Dugan Field at Stephen Lee Marsh Stadium serves as home to our baseball program while Draper Diamond at Smith Stadium provides a magnificent setting for our softball program. The Lipscomb Soccer Complex features a 600+ chairback stadium along with LED lighting and an LED digital videoboard. The 2,200-square-foot Huston-Marsh-Griffith Tennis Center houses a pro shop with a retail store to complement it’s eight court configuration
Student Growth and Accountability
Lipscomb University was founded with a commitment to biblical faith and principles. As an institution, the university seeks to equip, educate, and develop its students holistically as people who glorify God, integrating Christian faith and practice with every aspect of their lives. The university hopes to equip each student with personal integrity and a moral/ethical framework for life, which is responsible to the standards of Scripture and lived out in the Spirit of Christ.
With this goal in mind, the university has established guidelines for student behavior. As a member of the Lipscomb community, each student has the responsibility to become acquainted with the university’s policies as set forth in the Student Handbook, and to adopt a code of personal conduct which exhibits respect and concern for the values and mission of the university. Violations of university policies, the willing assistance of others who do so, and noncooperation in the fulfillment of disciplinary stipulations and/or procedures, are all actions that will be considered adverse to the mission of Lipscomb and may be subject to discipline.
Each member of the university community has the right and responsibility to hold others accountable to these standards. By doing this, the university believes it can provide an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity, one which is conducive to academic pursuits, as well as to healthy personal development in all aspects of life.
Academic Integrity: A Community of Faith
A Community of Faith
Lipscomb University is a community of scholars and learners committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Our core values of Christlikeness, truth, excellence and service integrate our Christian faith with the practice of academic pursuits. As citizens of this community, students, faculty and staff share the responsibility for promoting a climate of integrity. As a distinctively Christian university, Lipscomb encourages each member of the community to grow in Christ’s image. The pursuit of truth is a constant goal of the Christian life and lays the foundation for lifelong integrity. In every facet of our work, we seek excellence in the pursuit of knowledge and the courage to make difficult choices even at personal cost. In our service in this community, our actions should reflect the second great command “to love your neighbor as yourself.” The command compels us to respect others, to treat others fairly and honestly, and to assume personal responsibility.
The life of the Christian is built on the foundation of serving others and living in truth. A community built on these principles cannot tolerate cheating, lying, fraud, theft and other dishonest behaviors that jeopardize the rights and welfare of the community and diminish the worth of the academic integrity of the community.
Judicial Code and Integrity Council
The foregoing Community of Faith sets out broad principles. From these broad principles flow policies and practices for members of the Lipscomb University community. The Judicial Code and Integrity Council identifies specific definitions of academic integrity infractions, provides a process for handling potential violations, and identifies the specific steps in the process. The Judicial Code and Integrity Council can be found on myLipscomb and a summary is available at www.lipscomb.edu/academics/academic-support/academic-integrity.
Campus Security
Lipscomb Campus Security provides 24/7 dispatch, security patrols, and response to any calls for assistance that may arise on campus for the safety and security of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Additional services include virtual and in-person bison walks, vehicle assists (jump starts, unlocks, and tire changes), and emergency notifications through the Lipscomb Ready App and ALERTUS (outdoor audible alert system). Lipscomb Security’s Dispatch Center is located in the basement of Beaman Library and can be reached by phone at 615-966-7600 for 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In the event of a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911. The Lipscomb Ready app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Parking
Every student who parks on campus must register his or her vehicle and have a Lipscomb parking sticker. Parking stickers are issued 24/7 at the Lipscomb Security Dispatch Office located in the basement of Beaman Library.
All students must have a Lipscomb ID card. ID cards are used across campus for dining options, access to various events, and card access to certain buildings. ID cards can be issued 24/7 at the Lipscomb Security Dispatch Office located in the basement of Beaman Library.
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