Student Handbook
Mission Statement
Shepherd University, a West Virginia public liberal arts university, is a diverse community of learners and a gateway to the world of opportunities and ideas. We are the regional center for academic, cultural, and economic opportunity. Our mission of service succeeds because we are dedicated to our core values: learning, engagement, integrity, accessibility, and community.
Vision Statement
Shepherd: A Premier Public Liberal Arts University
We will be a nationally respected community of learners where passion, purpose, and experience unite to inspire individuals to shape the world.
Welcome from the Shepherd University President
Dear Students,
Welcome to a new academic year at S
hepherd University!
There is something special about the beginning of an academic year. It offers each of us a fresh start—a chance to discover new interests, form new friendships, challenge ourselves, and imagine possibilities we may not yet have considered.
For those joining Shepherd for the first time, whether as first-year or transfer students, welcome. I hope you quickly discover what makes this university such a remarkable community. You belong here, and I encourage you to make Shepherd your own.
For our returning students, welcome home. I hope you help extend the same sense of belonging to those who are just beginning their Shepherd experience. Introduce yourself. Offer directions. Invite someone to join you for lunch or attend an event. Small acts of kindness can make an enormous difference in helping someone know they have found their place here.
Your Shepherd education extends far beyond the classroom. I hope you dedicate yourself to your studies, ask difficult questions, explore unfamiliar ideas, and take full advantage of the extraordinary faculty who have chosen teaching and mentoring students as their life’s work. I hope you also become an active participant in the life of this extraordinary university.
Attend a lecture or performance. Cheer for the Rams. Join a student organization. Volunteer in our community. Get to know someone whose background or experiences are different from your own. Seek out opportunities to lead and, of equal importance, opportunities to serve.
College is one of the rare moments in life when you are surrounded by people whose purpose is to help you discover what you are capable of becoming. Take advantage of those who have dedicated themselves to supporting your unique journey of discovery.
I also ask you to remember that being part of a university community carries responsibilities. Treat others with kindness and respect. Listen before drawing conclusions. Approach differences with curiosity rather than judgment. Extend grace when others make mistakes and have the humility to acknowledge your own. We may not always agree with one another, but we can always choose to treat each other with dignity and respect.
One of my priorities as President is to listen to our students. I want to know what works well at Shepherd, where we have room for improvement, and what we can do together to make this an even better university. As you see me walking across campus, attending an event, or cheering on the Rams alongside you at a game, please take the opportunity to introduce yourself. I want to hear what brought you to Shepherd and learn more about your Shepherd experience. I want to get to know each of you, and I want you to know that your voice matters here.
Most of all, I hope you embrace the opportunities before you. Your years at Shepherd will pass more quickly than you can imagine. Use them well. Work hard. Take some chances. Make meaningful friendships. Discover something you love. Find ways to improve the lives of others.
Enjoy the journey.
I am grateful to share it with you.
Welcome home to Shepherd!
Cameron B. Wesson, Ph.D.
President
Welcome from the SGA President!
Hello Rams,
Welcome to Shepherd University! I am excited for you to experience the amazing community built here. From the faculty and staff to students, everyone has a place at this school. The encouragement and positivity you will receive throughout your time here will have a lasting impact on the rest of your life.
Being on this campus will open up doors and create connections as long as you are looking for them. As a first year student, it is important to challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone to explore all that Shepherd University has to offer. As an upper-class student, be a positive role model and continue to show others what it truly means to be a Shepherd Ram. Everyone plays a part in the growth and strength of this amazing student body.
Shepherd University has many different clubs and organizations on campus. One of the best ways to get involved is by attending the Involvement Fair, where you will gain information and learn about all of the groups you can join. Going to events hosted by the Program Board throughout the year is also a great way to get involved and have fun! It is important to remember that you are never alone. Shepherd’s main goal is to make sure that all students succeed. You have access to free tutoring, counseling services, academic advising, the Student Success Center and more. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help or support at any time.
Finally, I invite you to join us at the Student Government Association meetings. Our meetings take place each Tuesday at 5:00 pm in the Storer Ballroom. All students are welcome to attend. I hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Tyler Furbee
Student Government Association President
Welcome from the Vice President of Student Affairs!
Dear Students,
Welcome to a new academic year at Shepherd University! Whether you are joining us for the first time or continuing your educational journey, we are excited to have you as part of the Shepherd community. I hope are ready for the many opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Earning a college degree is an important – but not easy – goal. It is however, a goal that is within your reach. Our faculty and staff are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
This Student Handbook is an important resource designed to help you navigate your experience at Shepherd. It contains information about your rights and responsibilities as a student, available resources and services, and the policies and procedures that help create a safe, supportive, and successful learning environment. Take the time to review it and become familiar with the contents of this handbook, as understanding this information is a critical part of your success.
At Shepherd University, we believe every student deserves a positive and meaningful college experience. We are committed to fostering an environment where you feel:
- Welcome, valued, and supported;
- Comfortable seeking assistance when needed;
- Confident that faculty and staff are invested in your success; and
- Appreciated for the unique perspectives and contributions you bring to our community.
Students who actively engage in their education and campus life
are more likely to achieve their goals.
To make the most of your Shepherd experience, we encourage you to:
- Attend classes regularly, participate actively, ask questions, and submit assignments on time;
- Seek help early whenever you have concerns or questions, whether inside or outside the classroom;
- Become involved by joining a student organization, attending campus events, or pursuing on-campus employment opportunities; and
- Build connections with fellow students by engaging with people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Remember that your success is shaped by the choices you make and the opportunities you embrace. We encourage you to stay engaged, build meaningful connections, and prioritize your educational goals. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to helping you thrive and are here to support you throughout your college journey.
College life will present both challenges and exciting opportunities as you balance academic, personal, and professional responsibilities. When questions arise, take advantage of the resources described in this handbook and never hesitate to reach out for guidance and support.
I wish you a successful and rewarding academic year. We are excited to begin this new semester with you and look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish as a member of the Shepherd University community.
Best wishes,
Sincerely,
Holly Frye
Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Community Relations
https://www.shepherd.edu/studentaffairs
Welcome from the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dear Shepherd Students,
Dr. Jack DeRochi
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
