Elizabeth Sloan Ragland became the first woman to integrate campus housing at Samford. Ragland was a viable part of campus as a leader and student. After graduation, she stepped into a successful career in telecommunications and radio. With a warm heart and bright spirit, she went on to be a woman of impact and influence in her beloved community.
A Purposeful Community
The Ragland Scholars are a select group of students who demonstrate exceptional leadership and character, embodying Samford's mission to nurture the development of intellect, creativity, faith and personhood. The program has evolved since its creation in 2021 so that it is now designed to serve all entering first-year students, regardless of race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.
The program application is open to all first-time freshmen students, with submission due prior to the start of the fall semester.
Named in honor of Elizabeth Sloan Ragland, the first African-American woman to integrate campus housing at Samford University in 1969, the program creates intentional community that connects student leaders with an enriched campus experience.
The Ragland Scholars program promotes academic, career and ethical competency while encouraging social and civic responsibility and service to others.
Program
Participants of the cohort commit to maintain a 2.0 GPA in Samford coursework and actively contribute to fostering a Christ-centered, unified community on campus that values compassion and advocacy for every person. This commitment includes participation in all required program events and successful completion of any courses designated by the program director. In exchange, scholars will be secured with:
- A competitive scholarship award
- Extracurricular and social activities
- Intentional learning network
- Peer-to-peer mentoring
- Priority class registration
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all requirements for admission to Samford University and must be admitted at the time of any official announcement of award. Applicants must demonstrate leadership inclination or capacity, energy, industry and self-reliance in extracurricular activities.
Priority Interview Dates
Application Deadline
Regular Interview Dates
Decisions Announced
Apply Today
To apply for scholarships, you must have an online Samford account. If you've started your Samford/Common App admission application, you can apply for scholarships using the same login information. If you haven't started an admission application, please log in as a new user.
2024-25 Cohort
2023-24 Cohort
2022-23 Cohort
