| | FROM THE PARENT PROGRAM DIRECTOR
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And…we are back! What a joy it has been to kick off the 2026-27 academic year here at Lipscomb University. From welcoming our newest Bisons to the family during QuestWeek, to watching returning students reunite and settle back into campus life, the energy on campus has been nothing short of wonderful.
The first day of classes and Convocation — beautifully led by Dr. Candice McQueen — reminded us all of the purpose and calling that brings us together. As we look ahead, we are filled with excitement and gratitude for what this year holds. And to you, our Lipscomb parents — take heart. God's presence goes with your student every step of the way. As Joshua 1:9 reminds us, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (NIV)
What a gift it is to walk this journey alongside you and your family. This is going to be an extraordinary year!
Stacy Blackston ('00)
Director of Parent Engagement
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Follow the official Parent Program social media pages to stay up to date with what’s happening on campus!
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| Please check the Academic Calendar webpage for information updates about the schedule or specific drop and add class dates for the upcoming academic year.
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A Glimpse into the Start of the Fall Semester!
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The fall Prayer Zoom series starts Sept. 1
Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 10:55 a.m. CT as this year’s Parent Prayer Zoom events kick-off. On the first Tuesday of each month the parent program hosts a monthly prayer Zoom for our Lipscomb families. You are invited to join us as we get to know other parents, share prayer requests and praises. Each month, a guest speaker who is a faculty member, local minister or parent, will facilitate our time together. The Zoom begins at 10:55 a.m. CT. This is the same time that our students will be in “The Gathering” which is our large group chapel.
Earl Lavender, Lipscomb University professor and senior advisor of the Center for Vocational Discovery, will join us during our time together this month.
What a beautiful thing it is to take a break in the day to pray together. Feel free to join us on screen or by voice — we understand you may be working!
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Interested in learning more about the Parent Leadership Council?
Are you interested in learning more about the Parent Leadership Council? The PLC is hosting an informational Zoom on Tuesday, Sept. 8 to meet some of the members and learn more about the council. The Parent Leadership Council is looking for new members to join us for the 2026-27 academic year. Parents who serve on Lipscomb University's Parent Leadership Council play a key role in enhancing the student experience through active involvement and support. This is a great opportunity to understand the level of engagement and financial commitment required.
“As members of the Lipscomb University Parent Leadership Council, we’ve seen firsthand how Lipscomb nurtures studentsas they grow their faith, pursue their academics and deepen their relationships.” Ron and Suellen Moen, Parent Leadership Council Leaders
To read more about the values, responsibilities and benefits of the council, click here.
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The Office of Spiritual Formation is excited for students to be back on campus and to jump into another fall semester together. As you may know, the campus gathers each Tuesday of the semester for The Gathering. This is a special time where, as a Lipscomb community, we are prayerfully being formed more and more into the image of God through worship, prayer and teaching.
Each semester our speakers all share a common theme. This year’s theme is OPEN. Living OPEN is a daily posture of faith, continually widening our hearts to God. (2 Cor. 6:11-13) As we remove barriers of pride, fear, materialism and control, we discover the fullness of life Jesus promised: abundant, free and deeply connected to Him. May this generation of students walk through every door God opens with courage, serve with open hands, welcome with open arms and see the Kingdom of God break into their lives.
You are invited to watch each week's Gathering the following day on Lipscomb University's YouTube page. We also appreciate and welcome your prayers each and every week that students will encounter God, be formed by the Spirit and embody Christlike character during the Gathering and in all the other spaces of their life.
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Bisons Weekend is coming up Nov. 5-8! Save the date!
Leading up to the weekend, lots of activities on campus are planned for our students, and a wide variety of events and activities for everyone take place during the weekend. The official schedule has not been released yet, but here is a sneak peak of some of the many activities happening.
Each day the Lipscomb Department of Theatre will be performing its fall musical. Friday, Nov. 6, includes a "lunch & learn" for parents, parade through campus, Parent Leadership Council Interest Reception and Family Fall Dinner hosted by Sodexo. On Saturday, Nov. 7, Savannah’s Boogie 5K, Pancakes with the President, Bisons Weekend Chapel, Lunch in Bison Square, the Square Fair and Lipscomb Men’s basketball game round out the day. You don’t want to miss this weekend! Registration opens Sept. 15! Check here for updates!
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Schedule Changes & Course Deadlines: What Your Student Needs to Know
The Office of the Registrar asks parents to please remind their students that they are responsible for managing their own class schedules. Below are the key rules and deadlines to keep in mind:
- Adding a Class: Any course additions must be completed during the first week of the semester
- Dropping a Class: If your student needs to drop a course after the second week of the semester, they must submit an official Drop Course Form before the posted drop deadline. The Drop Course Form link goes live Aug. 31.
Encourage your student to check the academic calendar early so they don't miss these critical dates!
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Your student has left the nest! Be an informed parent to help them along the way!
Academic Success Center: If your student needs tutoring, the writing studio, or math lab, encourage them to reach out to their ASC coach to connect!
University Counseling Center: Your student has access to FREE counseling services through the University Counseling Center. All they need to do is fill out the intake form to get started.
University Health Center: If your student comes down with a common cold or needs general practitioner care, the health center is conveniently located on campus. Students can schedule through their online portal or by calling 615-966-1781.
TimelyCare: Tell your student to download our virtual counseling option, TimelyCare! After students download the app, they just need to use their Lipscomb credentials to access on-demand counseling support.
Office of Spiritual Formation: If your student is looking for help with finding a church home or opportunities for spiritual growth, encourage them to connect with our Office of Spiritual Formation in the basement of Bennett Campus Center.
Office of Student Success & Wellbeing: If your student doesn’t know what support may help them, encourage them to stop or reach out to the Office of Student Success & Wellbeing. We bridge the gap when students need a connection to resources. Parents, you are welcome to contact our office if you have a concern about your student, but let’s help them practice those self-advocacy skills first! If you do reach out, please know we are not able to share information due to FERPA regulations in most instances.
- Basic Needs Insecurity: Our office oversees both the Nourish Nook and Swipe Out Hunger program that supports students navigating food insecurity. Additionally, there is a hygiene locker on campus stocked with basic supplies for students who may have difficulty accessing them. Encourage your student to review our website or email us at studentcare@lipscomb.edu to connect.
- Student Care Emergency Fund: We know that unexpected circumstances may arise while students are enrolled that may increase their financial burden. The Student Care Emergency Fund serves as supplemental support to help students pay for essential needs so they can continue to prioritize their wellbeing and academic journey. Have your student review our website for the application process found here.
In seasons of change and transitions, we often lean on prayer and liturgy to guide and encourage us. "To Light Their Way" by Kayla Craig is a book full of beautiful prayers and liturgies for parents.
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Thank you for helping make Move-In Day a success! We hope you enjoyed this special milestone with your student. We’d love to hear about your experience and value your feedback as we continue to improve the move-in process for future families. Please take a few moments to complete our Move-In Day Survey—your feedback means so much to us!
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