I am delighted you have chosen to attend Cumberland University
Transitioning to college life can be a bit overwhelming, and I want to make sure you have the tools you need to be successful throughout your college career and beyond
Cumberland is a tight knit community, and we’re excited that you are now part of our family. This guide will help you through the process of becoming a CU student, and will be a resource for you long after the New Student Orientation days
College is an important time in your life, and I encourage you to make the most of your time at CU. Get involved in campus events and organizations, connect with your professors and classmates, take on leadership roles and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself
The CU community is filled with individuals who want to see you succeed, so ask questions, learn as much as you possibly can and soak it all in.
Welcome to our beautiful campus, I look forward to meeting you in person
It's time to rise!
Dr. Paul Stumb
LIFE AT
History & Traditions
Athletics
New Student Orientation
Navigating Campus
University Life
HISTORY
Founded in 1842, Cumberland University holds a unique place in American history as one of the oldest liberal arts universities in the South Cumberland was impacted by The Civil War when University Hall was burned to the ground during Union occupancy After the destruction, a Cumberland alumnus wrote the Latin phrase "E Cineribus Resurgo" which translates to “From the Ashes I Arise." Thus, from the ashes, the mythical phoenix became Cumberland’s enduring symbol which inspires the university to rise, endure, prosper, and illuminate the world.
Cumberland University continues to rise and make the world a better place through excellence in teaching, dedication to scholarship, creativity, collaboration, compassion, and outreach
Cumberland's alumni include 21 governors, more than 80 members of the United States Congress, two United States Supreme Court Justices, three United States ambassadors, a United States Secretary of State and a founder of the United Nations Additionally, influential figures in the Civil Rights Movement like educator, social activist, and founder of the Highlander Folk School Myles Horton graduated from Cumberland
For 180 years, students who attend Cumberland University discover who they are, who they want to become and how they want to leave their mark on the world. The heart of the Phoenix burns even brighter with every graduate who walks across the stage at Commencement. Together, they use their unique Cumberland experiences to shape the world around them. Their legacies reach far beyond their time at Cumberland, and their ongoing commitment to excellence, scholarship and service will continue to inspire and impact the world for centuries to come
TRADITIONS
Convocation
The Convocation ceremony is a ritual signaling the beginning of your college career, similar to how the Commencement ceremony serves as a ritual to mark the completion of your college career You’ll hear welcoming messages and advice from university administrators, including the President, Provost and President of the Student Government Association.
Heart of the Phoenix
Every year at the Convocation ceremony, students, faculty and staff are asked to write down any fears or concerns they have about the upcoming semester, and are then asked to commit them to the flame in the fire pit. In doing this, we believe we are stronger than the trials we may face and will rise to meet our greatest potential.
Colloquium
Each fall, CU hosts an annual research colloquium for students, faculty and staff to share their academic research on a wide variety of topics. This event is a great opportunity for you to experience presenting on a topic you’re passionate about as well as hear about a variety of topics from surviving a rattlesnake bite to wedding planning
Homecoming
Homecoming is a savored tradition, and Cumberland is no different Each fall, students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and community members gather to attend the Homecoming football game and see the crowning of the Homecoming Court The weekend is full of activities and opportunities to show your CU pride.
We are Phoenix! Cumberland rallies behind 31 men's and women's athletic teams that rise and compete for conference and national championships. In the game or in the stands you become part of the winning team.
Attendance is free with your CU student ID!
MEN VARSITY SPORTS
Baseball
Basketball
Bowling Cross Country
Football
Golf
Soccer
Tennis
Track and Field
Volleyball
WOMEN'S VARSITY SPORTS
Basketball
Bowling Cross Country
Golf
Soccer
Wrestling Softball
Tennis
Track and Field
Volleyball
COED VARSITY SPORTS
Competitive Cheer
CLUB SPORTS
Dance Esports
JV SPORTS
Baseball
Men's Basketball
Men's Soccer
Softball
Women's Basketball
Women's Soccer
Women's Volleyball
Home of the Phoenix Marching Band BAND
Check out the full athletic schedule at gocumberlandathletics.com/calendar
WELCOME TO CU
New Student Orientation is designed to prepare you for your time at CU and provide you with the resources and information you need to successfully navigate the college experience.
Orientation week kicks off with new student move-in, and includes a mix of both informative sessions and fun activities to get you acquainted with your new home
Expectations
Be on time for all orientation sessions.
Be open to learning, we’re all here to help you!
Wear your name tag, we’re excited to get to know you!
Keep cell phones on vibrate or silent.
Carry orientation materials with you.
No alcohol, smoking, vaping, drugs, or weapons allowed
Meet someone new, get to know your fellow Phoenixes. Be respectful of others. Have FUN!
As a Cumberland University student, you have access to many technologies that will enhance your college experience.
As a student, you are expected to check your university email address frequently and respond to emails from professors and staff in a timely and professional manner
You should already have access to your Cumberland email account. If you do not, or are having issues logging into your account, you can email IT support at support@cumberland edu
EMAIL RAVE GUARDIAN
At Cumberland, we go above and beyond to take care of you, because each of you matter
Rave Guardian is an app that allows campus security to send each of you a direct alert to your phone via text message and email about any event, including weather, that may threaten your safety
CUMBERLAND APP
The Cumberland App is available on all smartphones and tablets and is used as a resource for all things CU In addition to receiving important campus updates, the app is also used for attendance to scan into various events for class credit and extra credit. Once you ’ ve logged into the app, you can select the icon in the top left hand corner to scan QR codes at campus events
TALK CAMPUS
Cumberland's mission to help students thrive begins with your mental health and well being The TalkCampus app is a peer-to-peer resource allowing you to share, connect, and feel understood
Follow @cu_aroundcampus for all Student Life updates and upcoming events
The academic calendar is where you will find all of the important dates for the year. From the first day of classes to commencement, you’ll know what to expect and when
Aug. 26:
First day of class
Sep. 2:
University Closed, Labor Day
Oct. 11:
Midterm grades due Nov. 25-29: No Classes, Thanksgiving Break Nov. 28-29: University closed, Thanksgiving Dec. 6: Last day of class Dec. 9-13:
Final Exams
Your academic advisor is here to help you recognize your skills, strengths and interests as they relate to your intellectual and career goals They are your guide for navigating the ins and outs of Cumberland University’s degree requirements and campus resources You should meet with your advisor at least once each semester to discuss your short and long-term goals, and when considering changes that may affect your academic career or if you are experiencing any academic difficulties Bottom line - they’re here to help you succeed!
Your Responsibilities as a Student
Communicate with your advisor frequently
Understand your degree program and the classes and requirements necessary for your specific degree/major
Check your Cumberland email daily
Meet your advisor before Priority Registration begins and come to the appointment prepared as per your advisor’s instructions
Register for your classes through CAMS when your registration window opens Be proactive about asking your advisor for help if a problem arises
Understand important dates, deadlines and university policies and your responsibilities as a student
Your Advisor’s Responsibilities
Offer guidance to clarify your options, goals and potential while also helping you develop a greater sense of awareness
Help you understand the nature and purpose of a college education
Mentor you about career opportunities as it relates to your field of study
Provide accurate information about your academic options, requirements, policies and procedures
Help you plan your educational program and talk with you about your academic progress and performance
Help you connect with campus resources when needed
Maintain confidentiality in accordance with the federal and university regulations
The Office of Student Success
is your place for academic support when you need it They provide academic support through tutoring, mentoring and academic assistance We will be sure you have the tools necessary to be successful, whether that means helping you pass your hardest class or turning a B into an A!
Your Academic Coaches
will help you navigate college life at CU, while also serving as an academic advisor to freshmen during their first year of school We know when and how to refer you to various offices based on your needs and goals
Becoming a Phoenix requires a certain level of responsibility. Your decisions and actions have an impact on our community, and compliance with the expectations is essential to maintaining your student status. Scan the QR code to view all campus policies.
C A M P U S P A R K I N G
Wifi Password
Name:CUStudents
Password:CU!Phoenix1842
Books & Gear
You can purchase or rent your books for the semester, and get CU gear at the CU Shop on the bottom floor of the Mitchell Student Center
You can also order online at https://cumberland.textbooktech.com
Computers & Printing
NEED TO KNOW PARKING
The Vise Library, Labry Hall and the Learning and Career Commons (LCC) all feature computer labs that can be used on campus These labs are available to students for studying and completing assignments
CU also offers students free printing each semester up to 500 copies You can use your student ID number to access all of the printing stations which are located in the Vise Library, Labry Hall and the LCC