Samford University School of the Arts

06/17/2026

Samford students are helping transform more than just spaces—they’re impacting communities.

Through a unique partnership with Beulah Baptist Church in Sterrett, Alabama, students in the Architecture and Interior Design Collective reimagined a beloved prayer garden, blending thoughtful design with meaningful service.

What began as a simple connection became a powerful collaboration rooted in creativity, faith and community.

Read the full story: http://ms.spr.ly/6182vYCBM

06/12/2026

From first hellos to future performances, exhibitions and stories 💙

Session three of Bulldog Days wrapped today, welcoming more students into the largest freshman class in School of the Arts history. We can’t wait to see what you create here. 🎭🎨🎶

Tag us in your Bulldog Days moments for a chance to be featured—we love seeing campus through your lens 📸

06/10/2026

Patrick Young, Samford’s director of bands and assistant professor of tuba and euphonium, has been named a national finalist for The American Prize in Instrumental Performance—one of the nation’s most prestigious honors in the arts.

This recognition reflects years of dedication to performance, teaching and student mentorship within the School of the Arts.

Read more below!

Patrick Young, director of bands and assistant professor of tuba & euphonium, named American Prize national finalist in instrumental performance.

06/08/2026

A journey that began with certainty ended in something deeper: humility, faith and calling.

Through his time in Samford’s Department of Christian Ministry, recent graduate JP Gardner discovered that true growth doesn’t come from having all the answers—but from learning to trust, serve and lead well within a Christ-centered community.

Read his story and see how faith, friendship and formation shaped his path forward.
https://www.samford.edu/arts/news/2026/Christian-Ministry-Alumnus-Reflects-on-the-Community-that-Shaped-His-time-at-Samford

Faith, friendship and purpose defined JP Gardner's journey at Samford.

06/03/2026

Join us in congratulating music education alumnus Kerrig Kelly ’24 on earning a seat in the horn section of the Omaha Symphony for the upcoming season.

Reflecting on his time at Samford, Kelly shared:
“Thank you, Kevin Kozak and everyone at Samford School of the Arts, for guiding me through my undergraduate years. Kevin, you taught me not only how to play the horn, but most importantly how to be a humble and valued colleague.”

We are proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to all that lies ahead. 🎶

06/02/2026

It’s been one month since commencement, and we’re still celebrating the Class of 2026. 🎓

Theatre and Dance alumna Anna Williams' time at Samford wasn’t defined by the spotlight—it was shaped in the quieter moments. From discovering the depth of Theatre for Youth to stepping into roles that challenged her expectations, Anna learned that growth as an artist often comes through listening, serving and trusting the process.

Read Anna’s story and join us in continuing to celebrate our graduates.

Anna Williams reflects on faith, theatre and growth beyond the spotlight at Samford.

06/01/2026

🎶 Alumni Spotlight ✨

Alumnus Chanse Nelson ’17, MME ’19 is Oak Mountain Middle School's Teacher of the Year, a well‑deserved recognition of his passion for teaching and advocacy for students.

Nelson serves as assistant band director at OMMS and has remained closely connected to Samford and the School of the Arts, coordinating Honor Band events for many years.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to work in such an incredible school with such amazing people,” Nelson shared. “And, of course, I’m grateful for the kids who keep driving me to do what I love.”

We’re proud to celebrate Chanse—an educator who truly represents the best of Samford. 💙

05/29/2026

🎶🎨 Class of 2030, your canvas is waiting.

Bulldog Days begin next week, and we’re ready to welcome you to a place where creativity thrives, mentorship matters and your artistry can grow with purpose. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create here. 💙🐾

📸 Tag us in your Bulldog Days photos and use to share your story!

05/27/2026

🎶 Ready to explore the world of music?

Explorations in Music Camp at our Academy of the Arts is a fun, engaging experience designed especially for younger beginners (ages 5–9). Campers discover instruments, rhythm, composers, basic theory, and piano skills through hands-on activities and group learning.

🎹 Interactive classes and musical games
🎵 Creative group activities that make learning fun
🎤 Build a strong musical foundation

It’s the perfect way to introduce your child to music in a supportive, high-energy environment!

👉 Sign up today: http://ms.spr.ly/6188vVCQm