Brenau University 2022-2023

THE BRENAU DIFFERENCE

p1 Welcome

p2 Student Life

p4 College of Business & Communication

p6 College of Education

p8 College of Fine Arts & Humanities

p10 Ivester College of Health Sciences

p12 Brenau Campus

p14 Community & Traditions

p16 International Studies

p17 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

p18 Financial Aid & Academic Suppor t Services

p20 The Women’s College

p22 Athletics

p24 Greek Life

Brenau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associates, baccalaureate, masters, specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Brenau University.

WHATEVER YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE…

you can

At Brenau University, we create experiences that you’ll come to treasure. This is a place where you’ll thrive among a vibrant group of students and faculty who all bring different backgrounds and talents to the table.

You’ll learn from professors who want to help you succeed, and expand your worldview through internships, study abroad, and connecting with students from around the world. Brenau graduates inspire, challenge, and shape the world as teachers, business leaders, nurses, musicians, biologists, theatre professionals, interior designers, psychologists, and so much more.

You start out at Brenau discovering all the things you can do. And while you’re here, you focus on what you will do.

Pearce/Bailey Complex

YOU BELONG HERE

Brenau University is a place of learning and yet so much more. It’s a place of transformation. And for our students, it becomes home—one filled with a diverse group of individuals bonded by a common experience. From the grounds of our historic campus, to the energy of downtown Gainesville, to the shores of Lake Lanier, our students make memories that will last a lifetime. The Brenau experience comprises a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. Choose from a selection of campus clubs and organizations, honor societies, and outlets for artistic expression and community service. This is the place to find your voice and let it roar.

“One of the greatest joys of my day is connecting with students. Whether it’s in the dining hall, at an athletic competition, walking across campus, or in my own classroom, these conversations are a highlight of any day. I can’t wait to get to know you!”

Anne Skleder President, Brenau University

You Can be the leader you’ve always wanted to become

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & COMMUNICATION

OUR MAJORS:

Accounting

Communication and Media Studies

Finance

General Business

Health Care Administration

Hospitality Management

Human Resource Management

Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Marketing

Mass Communication

Organizational Leadership

“I want to start a business in my home country of Panama that opens doors for homeless people. And Brenau is giving me the opportunity to do that.”

— Bladimir Rodrigues ’25 Operations Management

YOU WILL

make a lasting difference in your community

The world needs leaders, now more than ever. We need leaders attuned to growing trends, who can face challenges head on and bring about positive change. The world needs leaders like you.

At the Brenau College of Business & Communication, we pride ourselves in our ability to transform students’ promise into real-world performance. We accomplish this through one-on-one connections

between faculty and students. Because of our smaller class sizes, we’re better able to identify the needs, potential, and talents within each student and cultivate that potential. In the classroom, we focus on improved critical thinking, communication, technological skills, and subject matter knowledge. Plus, we provide hands-on experience through access to mentorships and internships.

“Brenau has shown me that no matter the situation, there are always opportunities. You just have to go and look for them.”

—

Valentina Pabon, ’22 BBA Marketing, Finance, Operations Management

You Can make a difference in the lives of your students

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

OUR MAJORS :

Elementary Education

Middle Grades Education

Special Education

“Children are our future, and I want to help them learn, grow, and succeed. Brenau University provides all the classes and resources I need for my degree, and it’s helping me make connections and offering advice.”

— Annabeth Vandiver, ’23 Elementary Education

YOU WILL

shape the next generation

The importance of being a teacher cannot be overstated. As a teacher, you will be more than just an educator—you will serve as a mentor, a confidant, and a friend. Your impact will extend far beyond the classroom. Many of our students cite a favorite teacher as inspiration in their decision to pursue a career in education. And now it’s your turn.

Brenau’s faculty have spent decades as educators and know first-hand what it takes to succeed in the classroom. This means you’ll be prepared to meet the needs of your students.

“If you don’t make time for yourself, you won’t be able to give your all to your organization, your team, your schoolwork, your family, or your job. You want to take care of yourself— so much so that you’re overflowing, and then you can pour it into others.”

— Dr. Autumn Dodson, ’18 BA Elementary Education ‘21 Doctor of Education

You Can shine in the spotlight

COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS AND HUMANITIES

OUR MAJORS:

Acting for Stage and Screen

Conflict Resolution and Legal Studies

Costuming for Film and Theatre

Dance

English

Fashion Design

Fashion Merchandising

General Studies

History/Political Science

Interior Design

Music

Music Education

Musical Theatre

Studio Art

Theatre

Theatre Design and Technology

“Brenau is helping me achieve my career goals as a music teacher by getting me prepared and ready for life after college. I simply enjoy being in the music department and learning from wonderful people and musicians. It is such a supportive environment with people that truly care about you and your future.”

— Amelia Lathem, ’23 Music Education

YOU WILL find new ways to express yourself

You’ve probably felt it inside you from as far back as you remember. You see things a little differently than most of the world, and you have a need to express yourself creatively and effectively. At Brenau, we can help you channel your passion into a marketable skill set that will lead into a fulfilling career.

Brenau’s College of Fine Arts & Humanities supports students in a creative and challenging environment. We help hone your skills with a strong foundation in your discipline and connect you with professionals in your field. You’ll have opportunities to learn from guest speakers and take trips to regional, national, and international sites.

“Embrace everything Brenau has to offer. It was genuinely the best four years of my life, and I’m so glad that I took every opportunity. I said yes to every door that opened and learned to grow from every experience. It has played such a big role in who I am today.”

— Kendy Manzano, ’20 BFA Fashion Design

You Can care for people in their time of need

IVESTER COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

OUR MAJORS: Biology

Exercise Science

Health Science (pre-nursing)

Health Science (pre-occupational therapy)

Nursing Psychology Psychology (pre-occupational therapy)

“The courses that I have taken so far in the Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling have a very interactive structure. Students are allowed to express their experiences with mental health and illness at their discretion, which creates a safe environment for all students to learn about the functions of the human brain, human behaviors, and human interaction.”

— Imani Tornes ’25 Psychology

YOU WILL change lives

You have a passion for helping people, and we want to help you transform that into something meaningful. As a student in Brenau’s Ivester College of Health Sciences, you’ll explore nursing, biology, psychology, and other branches of health care so you can find a career that you not only enjoy, but one where you can make the greatest impact in your community.

While you’re learning how to better care for others, our faculty—many of whom are practicing health care professionals—will be in your corner, lending their guidance and expertise every step of the way. They care about your success and are dedicated to helping you thrive in the industry, whether you enroll in graduate school or dive straight into a career.

“Brenau has a very good reputation in the community. Clinical settings such as the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, always thought very highly of Brenau nursing students because most of the nurses at the hospital went to Brenau. I’ve always wanted to help people, and my goal as a nurse is to help people in their most vulnerable times.”

— Martis Ferguson

Travel Nurse

EXPERIENCES THAT MATTER

“My favorite place is The Art Expressions room because I can go and clear my mind by painting or doing homework. It’s a place that I really appreciate.“

— Xavier Bosso Rodriguez, ’27 Psychology

“The Crow’s Nest is a nice quiet place to hang out and study with friends. It reminds me of Class Day, where I was finally able to go to the top area, becoming an official senior at Brenau.

I remember the day so clearly.“

— Katherine Fourie, ’23 Exercise Science

“Pearce Auditorium is a very special place to me because we do convocation there, and that’s where I perform as a dance major. It’s the most historic part of the campus, and it’s very beautiful. I just have a lot of good memories there.“

— Katie Watkins, ’23 Dance, English

Grrrl PowHER Hour

This informal convocation brings female students together to celebrate the Brenau spirit and embrace their voices and talents. The event features a motivational keynote speaker and student performances.

Late Night Breakfast

Each semester before finals week, all Brenau students are invited to the Hopkins Dining Hall to enjoy a large spread of breakfast food. The night also includes fun activities and opportunities to win prizes.

Gold Refined by Fire Ceremony

Each year during orientation, Brenau’s first-year students write their individual goals for the coming years on a piece of paper and drop them into a fire, symbolizing them giving their dreams to Brenau.

“The lobby of the Burd Center has to be my favorite. Near the stained glass window is such a cool spot to sit and relax. It feels really peaceful there.”

— Sammy Nelson, ’22 Acting

YOU WILL immerse yourself in THE BRENAU EXPERIENCE

While living on the historic Gainesville campus, you’ll become an integral member of Brenau’s community and embrace all that comes with being a Golden Tiger. The Brenau Student Services staff and Resident Assistants go above and beyond to create well-rounded and memorable experiences that make our campus feel like a home away from home. With many clubs and groups on campus, you’ll be able to hone your passions, embrace traditions, make memories, and focus on the bright path ahead.

Brenau’s security team works 24/7 to monitor campus and keep you safe, so you can focus on studying, hanging out with friends, and making the most of your college experience.

“To incoming first-years, I say do everything the campus offers. Join clubs, student services do everything. If you don’t, you’ll look back and wish you did. You only have four years here, so make them beautiful.”

— Jayda Burkett ’23 Nursing

DORM ROOM

ESSENTIALS TOP 10

Keurig for your late night/early morning study sessions

Headphones for when you really need to focus

Desk lamp so you can study when your roommate needs some sleep

Decor that makes your room feel like home

A mirror to make sure your fit is Power strips. Need we say more?

Mini fridge to hold all your chilly snacks

Lots of pillows and blankets so you can get cozy

Toiletries for all the obvious reasons

Microwave to make the ultimate college student staple: ramen (just keep it 600–800 watts)

GLOBAL AWARENESS BEGINS HERE

Brenau’s Miller Institute for Global Education welcomes students from across the globe, and proudly sends students to study abroad. You can choose a program that stretches over a summer or a full semester. By studying abroad, you’ll be exposed to different people and cultures, which will ultimately broaden your perspective and leave a lasting impact on your life.

Even if you don’t study abroad, you’ll live and learn alongside students from all over the world. Brenau’s international students come from 20 different countries, and you’ll have many opportunities to build friendships with them through events and programs, including celebrations of Hispanic Heritage and Chinese New Year.

Study Abroad Programs

• China • Aalborg, Denmark

• Cambridge, England

• London, England

• Paris, France

• Berlin, Germany

• Waterford, Ireland

• Jamaica

• Porto, Portugal

• Edinburgh, Scotland

• Madrid, Spain

“I would tell international students to see the difference between our different cultures. You’ll study a lot of things. You’ll have a lot of experiences. It’s helpful for you. I really love to live here.”

— Xu “Lilac” Kanjun, ’22 BFA Interior Design

Diversity, inclusivity, and belonging are paramount

We are committed to creating a culture that embodies diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. At Brenau, we embrace compassion and take the time to understand each other because we know our differences make us stronger. Faculty and staff members strive to build traditions that highlight our diversity, such as the Nyansapo Kente Stole Ceremony and our Martin Luther King Jr. convocation.

Brenau’s strategic plan strengthens our current efforts of fostering inclusion and belonging and sets the stage to create an even more welcoming and uplifting environment for all students. No matter your race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity, you have a home at Brenau.

“Brenau strives to create an inclusive campus by having continuous conversations that unite the students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community. We’ve made a commitment to acknowledge, respect, and value diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in learning, living, working, and serving others throughout the university. We want everyone to feel and know they are welcomed.”

— Margie Gill, ’10 Master of Science in Clinical Counseling Psychology Executive Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiatives

INVEST IN AN AFFORDABLE, TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION

Sources of Financial Aid

INSTITUTIONAL AID

Scholarships and need-based grants provided by Brenau

STATE AID

Scholarships, grants, and loans

FEDERAL AID

Grants, loans, and work-study programs

FAFSA

The total amount of your financial aid will depend on the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To complete the FAFSA, visit fafsa.gov after October 1 and use code 001556 for Brenau University.

STATE AID

Apply for the Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant and the HOPE Scholarship at gafutures.org if you have been a legal resident of Georgia for a minimum of 12 consecutive months.

NET PRICE CALCULATOR

Check out Brenau’s Net Price Calculator at brenau. edu/calculator to get a preliminary estimate of the financial aid programs you may be eligible for along with estimated annual costs.

The value of a Brenau education goes beyond earning a degree in a supportive, diverse environment. Here, you will build critical professional connections, gain hands-on experience in your desired field, and learn how to succeed and better the lives around you. Our Financial Aid Office is dedicated to helping break down financial barriers that stand in your way at Brenau. We’ll shine a light on the process and assist with the forms, regulations, deadlines, and payment plans.

We can be reached by email at financialaid@brenau.edu or by phone at 770-534-6152.

Invested in Your Academic Success

Brenau offers a variety of academic centers designed to deliver assistance outside of the classroom that is focused on your needs. The Center for Academic Success offers peer, professional, and faculty tutoring in most academic disciplines. The Office of Accessibility Services provides accommodations for students with documented learning differences. And finally, the Writing Center is a peer tutoring organization that supports students in the development of writing skills through individual conferences, computer-based tutorials, and group workshops. Visit us online at brenau.edu/academic-success to learn more.

“At the Center for Academic Success they helped me with time management, refocusing my school tasks and life priorities. I used those services my senior year, and it really helped me stay organized and centered on what I needed to do. It was a good opportunity to also meet new faculty and staff on campus.”

— Paola Benitez-Hernandez, ’22

WAYS TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN COLLEGE TOP 10

GO TO CLASS! (This is the best predictor of academic success.)

Ask questions. If you’re confused, someone else is too.

Learn your professors’ names and take advantage of their office hours.

Prioritize your mental and emotional health, and make sure you take time to decompress.

Create routines. No one else is going to do your laundry for you.

All things in moderation. Participate in activities, but learn to take time for yourself.

Utilize campus academic resources like the Center for Academic Success, Accessibility Services, and the Trustee Library. They’re more useful than you think!

Read your syllabi. The answers are there. We promise!

Find your place. Embrace your favorite hobby and join a campus club or organization full of people just like you!

And, seriously: GO TO CLASS

An Engaging, Immersive Women’s Experience

At The Women’s College of Brenau University, you’ll be surrounded by talented, driven women who aren’t afraid to challenge themselves and follow their dreams. Since 1878, The Women’s College has earned a stellar reputation for preparing graduates to be effective leaders, communicators, and critical thinkers; connecting students with faculty mentors; and fostering a strong sense of community that lasts well beyond graduation. Our small class sizes mean you’ll receive more individualized attention from professors who truly care about your success. Through The Women’s College, you can become a leader who will flourish professionally and improve the world around you.

And you will.

“For women at coed institutions, there’s research that indicates that by the end of their sophomore year, their confidence levels have gone straight down. The trajectory is the opposite for students at women’s colleges, in that by the end of their sophomore year, their confidence levels have grown dramatically.”

— Debra Dobkins, Dean of The Women’s College

Why The Women’s College?

Signature programs and courses exclusively for women

Residential Greek life

Single-gender experiences and residence halls

Competitive intercollegiate athletics

Life-shaping experiences beyond the classroom

Alumnae networking and mentoring

THE GOLD PROGRAM

Brenau’s Women’s College students actively engage with the GOLD Program, a four-year sequence that focuses on gender awareness, personal and professional development, leadership and service, global perspective, and the advancement of women.

Gender: a year committed to women’s empowerment

Ownership: a year focused on personal responsibility

Leadership: a year dedicated to preparing tomorrow’s leaders

Diversity: a year concentrating on global citizenship

FIERCE. COMMITTED. PROUD.

As a student athlete at Brenau, you will compete for conference and national titles with teammates who will become some of your closest friends. At Brenau we challenge our student athletes to give their all, both on the field and in the classroom.

There’s never a dull moment for sports at Brenau. With 15 teams and 12 varsity sports, we offer ample opportunities for female students to compete against and find camaraderie among fellow athletes. Brenau is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Appalachian Athletic Conference.

Basketball

JV Basketball

Competitive Cheer

BRENAU TEAMS

Cross Country Golf Lacrosse Soccer Softball JV Softball Spirit Cheer Swimming & Diving Tennis Indoor Track & Field Outdoor Track & Field Volleyball

BRENAU STATS

185+ student athletes

3.3 average cumulative student-athlete GPA

28 NAIA scholar-athletes

2 National Championships

45 national championship appearances

17 Conference Championships

68 All-Americans

11 Scholar Teams (2020–2021)

“I have enjoyed meeting new teammates and playing at the competitive college level together the most. The amount of cheers we have after winning games, encouragement during preseason, and support after bad games makes it all worth playing soccer for the next four years of my college career.”

GO GREEK AT BRENAU

Greek life at Brenau has a long and rich tradition. Established in 1909, Brenau is one of the only four women’s colleges in the U.S. that has Greek life. Brenau has seven active sororities on campus: six National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities and one National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) sorority.

All women enrolled full-time (12+ hours) in The Women’s College are eligible to participate in Greek Life. We invite you to make lifelong friendships and thrive in a vibrant and diverse Greek community by joining a sorority.

BRENAU SORORITIES

“Personally, the most fulfilling part of being in a sorority at Brenau is being able to serve and educate students. While I have only been an AKA for a year, I have orchestrated three financial literacy events. During these events, I have been able to inform my peers on topics like debt, savings, and long-term financial peace.”

— Samantha Glover, ’23 Accounting

Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Delta Pi Alpha Gamma Delta Alpha Kappa Alpha Delta Delta Delta Phi Mu Zeta Tau Alpha

THE BRENAU IDEAL

To find satisfaction in being rather than in seeming;

To find joy in doing rather than in dreaming;

To be prepared for service thereby earning the right to be served;

To be pure in heart, vigorous in mind, discreet in action;

To love deeply, fear nothing, hate never;

To enjoy that freedom which comes from knowledge of the truth;

To be modestly conscious of the limitations of human knowledge and serenely confident of the limitless reaches of human endeavor—

This is the ideal of Brenau.

— H.J. Pearce, Brenau President, 1900–1943

500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville, GA 30501 Brenau.edu • 770.534.6100