New Student Guide

Founded in 1851 in Newton, NC, Catawba moved to Salisbury in 1925. A private, co-educational liberal arts college with a strong commitment to sustainability and the environment, Catawba offers over 70 academic programs, more than 40 student clubs and organizations, and is home to 24 NCAA DII athletic programs. And now, Catawba is home to you!

The vitality of Catawba College lies in its tradition of strong academic programs; sensitive, concerned but demanding faculty; diverse students who share a seriousness of purpose; successful, loyal graduates; and informed, committed trustees. Each year students, faculty and staff participate in annual traditions put on by the college.

CAMPUS ACTIVITY BOARD

The Campus Activity Board is the student programming board of Catawba. This group of students plans and executes weekly events for the campus to enjoy. A few of the events that the Campus Activity Board has each year are Bingo, Spray Can Artists, and Make-It-Take-It Nights. Bingo night is one of the most popular events where students can win gift cards, sporting equipment, food, and customized Catawba items. Spray Can artists is a program that allows students to choose from a variety of pictures that the artist creates using spray paint. Make-it-Take-it events include personalized street signs, dry erase boards, license plates, and more. All programs are free for students.

WELCOME WEEKEND

Welcome Weekend is a weekend in August that allows first year students to connect and get to learn more about the Catawba campus. During this weekend there are events, free gear to win, and a great chance to bond with your class!

FIRST-YEAR RETREATS

Incoming students are invited to attend an off-campus First-Year Retreat sponsored by the Lilly Center for Vocation and Values. Students will spend time with staff, fellow students, and faculty reflecting on values and vocation, as well as enjoying each other’s company, bonding, and engaging in lots of leisure activities. (See the Lilly Center and First-Year Retreats).

OPENING CONVOCATION 

Opening convocation is held at the beginning of each academic year to represent the commencement of classes and activities. The service takes place in Omwake-Dearborn Chapel on Catawba’s Campus on Tuesday before the first day of class.

FAMILY WEEKEND

Please plan to visit your student on campus during Family Weekend! This gives families an opportunity to meet their students’ new friends as well as their professors. Most events that occur during this weekend are free of charge to the student. Families should plan to purchase tickets for theatre/music productions or athletic competitions.

HOMECOMING

During Homecoming Weekend, you can engage and connect with alumni, enjoy Catawba football, and watch as two of your fellow classmates are crowned Homecoming King and Queen by President David P. Nelson as well as Mr. and Ms. Catawba! Official Homecoming Tee shirt sale hosted by the Psychology club. The official “Homecoming” tee is designed and sold by the Psychology Club as a fundraiser. Monies raised by the t-shirt sale is used to fund conference travel for students.

BIG BAER HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL

The Big Baer Carnival takes place each year around Halloween. It’s a celebration and fundraiser for members of the Catawba community and their families to enjoy trick or treating and games on campus.

DUCK DRAW

Duck Draw is an annual community service event hosted by the Office of Residence Life. This event raises money to purchase Thanksgiving meals for local families in the Rowan County community. Each year the Residence Life team raises enough money to provide complete Thanksgiving meals for at least 100 families in the Community. These meals consist of a 10-12 pound turkey, a baking pan, rice, cranberry sauce, green beans, corn, stuffing mix, and a box of brownie mix.

LIGHTING OF THE GREEN

The Annual Lighting of the Green ceremony takes place at the end of the fall semester. This is an event that is open to the local community. At this event, Catawba students perform the Catawba rendition of the “Twelve Days of Christmas” and President Nelson reads “Twas the Night Before Christmas (Catawba Edition)”. At this event, you can enjoy hot apple cider and hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, music, merriment, and even take a picture with Santa!

CATAWBA HOUSE OF PANCAKES (CHOP)

CHOP is held at the end of each semester and is one of a series of week-long events to allow students to have a break from studying for exams. Catawba faculty and staff serve the students a traditional pancake breakfast in a fun-filled community atmosphere!

LESSONS & CAROLS 

Lessons and Carols is an annual event that tells the story of the birth of Christ through scripture and song. Members of the community are invited to attend this special service in the Omwake-Dearborn Chapel.

SPRING ORIENTATION

Spring Orientation is for new, transfer, and returning students to become acclimated to campus. During this time the students get their class schedule, learn about the Catawba community, and are introduced to members of campus.

WINTERFEST

Winterfest is a semi-formal dance that is hosted by Helen Foil Beard Women’s Society, a service club for young women. This event is a Student Government Association funded event that allows the society to provide a night of dancing, and entertainment.

HEALTH FAIR

Health Fair is an event held in the Leonard Lounge hosted by Catawba Wellness Committee. Many vendors attend this event to provide and distribute helpful information on a variety of health-related topics as well as free health screenings. Some of the vendors include NOVANT Health, YMCA, Family Crisis Center, Skinny Wheels Bike Shop, and the Pregnancy Support Center.

SPA NIGHT

Spa Night occurs in the spring semester and is an opportunity for students to de-stress before the final push of the semester. This event is hosted by Wellness Promotions in conjunction with student clubs and includes massage chairs, professional haircuts, eye brow waxing, face masks, healthy snacks, caricatures, and much more. All of this is provided to the students for FREE.

SENIOR SALUTE

Senior Salute is an event held on campus for graduating students. At this event, students receive information about graduation and pick up their caps and gowns. Senior Salute takes place in Leonard Lounge of the Cannon Student Center in March each year.

CATAWBAPALOOZA

One of the largest events Catawba hosts each year, CatawbaPalooza offers rides, music, and fun and is free for all Catawba students, faculty, and staff. Great food and snacks from local food vendors/food trucks are also available.

ACCEPTED STUDENTS DAY

Accepted Students Day is usually held in April of each year. Preview day is a comprehensive introduction for admitted and deposited students and their families. Many activities are planned throughout the day for students.

SENIOR INVESTITURE

Investiture is an event that takes place during the week of graduation. This service for graduating seniors in which they are invested with hoods that fit over the gown. At this ceremony, seniors who are graduating with honors are recognized. This is the first of the events that occur during graduation week.

BACCALAUREATE 

This special service of worship held during the week of Commencement features a keynote speaker and pauses to celebrate and honor all of our graduates. This is their farewell message from the administration, faculty and staff.

COMMENCEMENT

Graduating seniors are honored and recognized individually as they receive their degrees at Commencement. This service honors the hard work and success over the years at Catawba.

Go to class regularly.

Many professors add information in class lectures that is not found in your textbook. Class discussions are also important. If you are having trouble with a course and need to talk to a professor, it is much more beneficial for you to attend class regularly.

Since Catawba is a small school, it is noticeable when you are absent from class. Professors on campus care for your well-being and will check on you to make sure you are okay.

Plan to stay on campus the first two weekends.

Your first semester in college is an exciting time! Give yourself time to become comfortable with your new environment, friends, and emerging independence. Catawba is a school that offers free activities throughout the weekend. Plan to attend these events to get to know the campus and the people who live here!

Contact your new roommate(s) prior to arrival.

Have good communication with you future roommate and talk about and decide what to bring so you do not duplicate things like refrigerators.

Discuss likes and dislikes, any conflicting issues, and consider ground rules. Prepare to be considerate and ready to make some compromises.

Living in a community is an important part of your education.

Get involved in at least one out-of-class activity.

Students who get involved in campus activities usually are happier and adjust to campus life than those who isolate themselves. Catawba offers a wide variety of campus activities, programs, and clubs. However, if you don’t see what you want, consider starting a new one. Students are given opportunities to start a new club or organization. Please see Student Clubs and Activities for more information about getting involved.

Get to know your resident assistant (RA).

RA’s will be happy to answer questions or assist you with possible roommate conflicts, homesickness, or other aspects of adjusting to your new environment. They can also refer you to other resources throughout campus. Catawba thoroughly trains their Resident Assistants with different scenarios. They are trained to know each situation is unique in their own way. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your RA for anything. If they cannot help you with your situation, they will guide you to the appropriate person that can help you.

Treat the College and surrounding community as your home.

Catawba is your home away from home. You are renters, sharing your space with others. Please be courteous and considerate to everyone in the community and remember the golden rule-”treat others as you would like to be treated.” Catawba has courtesy hours in the residence halls. Please be mindful of this as you are living with many other students.

Get to know one professor well each semester. (Going to class regularly is helpful for this one.)

At some point, you will need references for internships, jobs, etc. It also just makes the college experience richer and more fulfilling. Catawba prides themselves on small class sizes. Getting to know at least one professor well each semester is not a hard thing to do. Take the time to schedule a meeting with them to get to know them more and to allow them to get to know you.

Although campus will do all it can to make college life safe and secure, you must assume some responsibility for your own well-being.

Walk in well-lit areas, call for a public safety escort, do not impair your judgement with alcohol or drugs, and know who you are with. Catawba is a small campus, but some areas are not well lit. If you feel unsafe or do not feel you are in the right state of mind, please call Public Safety at 704-637-4000 and they will escort you to your residence hall.

USE your campus resources.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Catawba offers a variety of resources. Your advisor, resident assistant, and the Catawba2Career (C2C) Success Center and Disability Services, Health Services, and Counseling services are just a few examples. These services are available to you at no cost. Please do not hesitate to ask for help with academics or personal issues. We are here to help and want to see you succeed.

Be ready for new experiences.

You will be meeting, living, and learning with a diverse group of people. Be open to the opportunity to learn about different cultures and beliefs.

Communicate.

Talk honestly with roommates or others you meet and spend time with. Know your limits, and let others know them as well.

Manage Stress.

Practice time management, get some exercise, and balance work and play. Keep up with classes from the beginning. It is possible to attend class, do your work, and have fun.

CANNON STUDENT CENTER

Cannon Student Center is the home of many things on Catawba’s campus. This building is home to The Office of Student Affairs (including Student Activities, Residence Life, Counseling Services, Student Government Executive Office, Student Conduct Office, and the Office of the Dean of Students, Esports Arena, the Bookstore, The Coop, Starbucks, Bowl Life, the Game Room, Adam’s Loft (Commuter Lounge), Mail Services, Lerner Wellness Center, Dining Services, and Proctor Student Health Center.

The main lounge, Leonard Lounge, is full of couches and tables for students to sit and work on homework or engage in conversation. This area is also used for information tables and various student activities such as club fair, game/movie nights, comedians or magicians, etc.

Adam’s Loft is home to Catawba’s commuters lounge provides couches, tables, desktop computers, and a TV. Students who commute to campus can use this space to work on homework/projects or relax between classes. A few lockers are provided for commuter students to store their belongings during the day if necessary.

The Game Room is an open space with pool tables, gaming consoles, ping pong tables, an air hockey table, and seating spaced around for students to watch or just relax and enjoy their time.

Proctor Student Health Center is located on the back side of the Cannon Student Center directly across from Foil House Residence Hall (unfortunately, there is no access from inside the student center). Students may see the nurses in the health center at no charge for minor illnesses. They can also test for flu, strep, STD’s, pregnancy, etc. Doctors are available if needed.

Lerner Wellness Center, located on the first floor of the student center, houses cardio and weight machines. This center is accessible to any student, faculty, or staff member by scanning their Catawba id card.

Mail Services is also located on the first floor of the Cannon Student Center. A wide array of services are available including voter registration, stamp purchase, shipping via U.S. Postal Service, UPS, and Fed Ex.

SUSTAINABLE CATAWBA

Through the Center for the Environment, students get opportunities rarely found at a small college. They have multiple occasions to get involved in the Center for the Environment’s grassroots initiatives and community outreach. That real-world experience gives them a huge head start when they graduate and enter the work world. No matter the major all students can get involved in the environmental efforts on campus. The Catawba Sustainability Pledge addresses individual behaviors relating to waste, transportation, food and energy use. It commits individuals to take action to develop environmentally conscious habits. You can go to the website for more information regarding Catawba’s green goals.

VOLUNTEER CATAWBA

Volunteer Catawba is an opportunity that is open to all students, faculty and staff, alumni and friends of the College. Catawba is all about helping our community of Salisbury by partnering with local organizations and assisting them with needs that take place in our community. Catawba offers plenty of chances to help out around the community and volunteer. 

CAMPUS MINISTRY & CAMPUS WORSHIP

Catawba Campus Ministry offers weekly worship services on Tuesday mornings at 11am in the Omwake-Dearborn Chapel (and sometimes outside around a campfire!) These services are led by the Scholars of the Chapel, a group of students who are offered a small scholarship to lead the music and liturgy in worship. Campus Ministry also offers small groups which create a weekly space to talk about life and faith. Follow along on Instagram at @Catawba_Campus_Ministry.

FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE

The First-Year Experience (FYE) is an integrated set of programs designed to help students begin their first semester of college ready to succeed and thrive. Our goal is to inculcate the values, habits, skills, and knowledge of an academic community in our first-year students and to provide them with the information they need to take responsibility for their college career and their success. The FYE is designed to increase engagement with the social and intellectual life of the campus community.

Students begin their First-Year Experience in April preceding their matriculation by attending Preview Day, where they meet potential First-Year Seminar professors and advisors, attend sample classes, and meet major professors and other students in their major. They “preview” life as a Catawba student, and are then directed to complete their student scheduler, an online portal designed to collect information about academic background, goals, specific needs, co–curricular plans, and major interests. All incoming students (including those not able to attend Preview Day) are then able to use the online scheduler portal.

Information from the summer scheduler is used during Summer Scheduling with Master Scheduling Advisors, experts in the area in which students wish to study, in crafting a sample schedule for the first semester. Most students do not change their schedule for the first semester after Master Schedulers write the schedule, as Schedulers look beyond the first semester to project a longer-term plan for classes leading to successful degree completion.

Students become more fully integrated in the academic and social life of the College during their Summer Orientation, a two-day experience for new students and parents alike that allows new members of our Catawba family to learn about the campus, residential life, commuter opportunities, rules of living in our community, and what Catawba provides for academic, social, and personal resources. Students will meet fellow classmates, other students, and many faculty and staff during Orientation.

Some students may choose to attend an off-campus Summer Retreat sponsored by the Lilly Center for Vocation and Values. Students will spend time with staff, fellow students, and faculty reflecting on values and vocation, as well as enjoying each other’s company, bonding, and engaging in lots of leisure activities. (See the Lilly Center and Summer Retreats.)

Students also prepare to participate fully in the intellectual life of the College during the summer leading up to their first semester. The Catawba Community Reading Program is an initiative intended to get incoming first-year students talking about important issues from the minute they arrive on campus. The program provides students with a shared academic experience during the Welcome Weekend in August, and during the first semester.

Themes in the reading are addressed in a variety of contexts: during formal discussion in Orientation, in individual First-Year Seminars, in the community, during informal conversation (with faculty, ALPHA Orientation Leaders, coaches, staff, and other students), and in Lilly Center events such as the values and vocation dinner.

Thus, the reading provides a common base for discussion among all members of the campus community for the entire year.

Welcome Weekend begins the new academic year with three days of fun, information, and bonding with the incoming class, faculty, staff, and upper-class students. During Welcome Weekend students attend events and do projects with the other members of their First-Year Seminar(FYS) class, their first-year advisor and professor, and their ALPHAs. ALPHA Orientation Leaders (AOL) are upper-class students who provide a support system to incoming first-year students during Welcome Weekend.

They know the ropes and they make adjusting to college life as seamless as possible by mentoring their incoming students and assisting FYS instructors during Welcome Weekend.

By the end of Welcome Weekend new students know where everything is on campus, and they may have attended your first Catawba arts and sporting events, settled into their dorms or investigated Commuter Connect, visited classrooms where their courses meet, engaged in a group discussion about the common reading, and performed service projects with classmates. Students will be ready for the first day of class. Some students also provide written or language samples or audition for musical ensembles so that they are in the right classes to help them succeed. We wind up Welcome Weekend with the Opening Convocation and Community Picnic, where students become official members of the Catawba community by signing the Honor Pledge and enjoy a warm welcome from members of the Salisbury community.

FIRST-YEAR SEMINAR (FYS)

First-Year Seminar (FYS) is a 3-sh course taken by all students who have never attended a four-year college or have transferred in with fewer than 18 sh of credit.

The purpose of the course is to provide students with a multi-disciplinary look at various topics, while also helping students to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their new academic world. The FYS is the key piece of our First-Year Experience. (See First-Year Seminar.)

Personalized advising for the individual is another hallmark of the FYE. Students meet professors in their intended major (if they have one) during Welcome Weekend and they may request an advisor from that discipline as soon as their classes begin. Additionally, every new student has a first-semester advisor (their FYS professor) who serves to ensure that students understand degree requirements, navigating the documentation for keeping track of courses and requirements, and who serves as a sounding board for questions about vocations, careers, and classes. Thus, two dedicated academic advisors are available in the first year.

And, finally, new students continue a tradition of over 70 years when they visit the President’s house for an official welcome into the Catawba family. Although students no longer wear evening dress for a formal tea at the President’s house as they did 50 years ago, they nonetheless get to visit “their” house while enjoying the annual Candy Bar Mingle with the President’s family.

Catawba’s First-Year Seminar (FYS) Program helps students make a smooth transition from high school to college, introduces students to the academic values of the Catawba community, and facilitates the development of strong bonds among students and faculty. Incoming first-time first-year students, early college students, and transfer students with fewer than 18 hours of college credits take a section of FYS in their first semester at Catawba. While the goals of the course are consistent across all sections of FYS, each seminar uses a different topic as the vehicle for the inculcation of the skills, values, and knowledge necessary for success in the first year.

Students develop their academic toolkit so that they can succeed in the first semester and beyond. They learn how to engage in class discussions, manage their time, use resources honestly, value intellectual property, and look at problems and questions from multiple perspectives. Every section emphasizes critical reading and writing skills. The seminar instructor also serves as one academic adviser (in addition to a major advisor) for the students in her/his section.

And, finally, new students continue a tradition of over 70 years when they visit the President’s house for an official welcome into the Catawba family. Although students no longer wear evening dress for a formal tea at the President’s house as they did 50 years ago, they nonetheless get to visit “their” house while meeting the President’s family.

Deposited students may select their FYS section beginning in early April using an online system; this process continues through summer scheduling into June. Section choices are first-come, first-served. Each year we feature about 20 FYS sections, and each takes a multi-disciplinary look at a provocative and timely topic. Such topics include A Green Imagination; Hair, Hair, it’s Everywhere; Writers and Addiction; From Clueless to Class Act; Positive on the day!; Navigating the Maze; Shaken, not Stirred: The History of Espionage; Leadership in a Multicultural Society; Putting it all Together for a Great Life; Fairies, Leprechauns, and Banshee: Myths and Legends of Ireland; Let’s go to the Movies: Philosophy in Film; Climate Change; Cultural Cuisine; Inside the Mind of Malcom Gladwell: A David and Goliath story of Outliers who never Blink while Talking to Strangers; Anime; Propaganda as Art; Defining the Self; Finding your Place in the World; and The Science of Sleep.

INTRAMURAL SPORTS

Each semester, 5 to 8 different intramural events are offered. These events are a wide variety and are open to all students on campus. All registration is done on IMLeagues.

For updates, follow them on Instagram: @Catawba.wellness.

To learn more about Intramural Sports, please contact Emily Schneider at eschneid@catawba.edu or stop by her office in the Wellness Center – 1st floor of the Cannon Student Center.

LERNER WELLNESS CENTER

The Lerner Wellness Center is an on-campus workout facility that is open to all students. The Wellness Center is typically open from 6am-9pm Monday-Thursday, 6am-6pm Friday, and weekend hours vary by semester.

A liability waiver is to be filled out before the use of this facility. 

The Campus Life Office is Room #210 I in the Student Affairs Suite. 

SALISBURY GREENWAY

The Catawba College campus is connected to the Salisbury Greenway, giving students access to the 169-acre ecological preserve which contains over three miles of trails.

STUDENT CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

The Campus Activities Board plans, supports and promotes social, cultural, and educational programs that enhance the quality of campus life. Campus wide programs are offered weekly and are always free. Students can enjoy stage shows with hypnotists, comedians, mentalists, and more, as well as interactive events with giveaways. Watch for posters, and electronic communication for event information.

Many clubs and organizations are available at Catawba, and students are encouraged to get involved in campus life by participating in clubs. Campus organizations are listed in the Student Resource Guide and on the campus website.

A club fair is hosted every fall and this gives students the opportunity to find out more information and sign up for clubs!

OFFICE OF RESIDENCE LIFE

Residence life at Catawba is considered an integral part of a student’s development and important to the college experience. Professional and paraprofessional staff persons are committed to providing an environment conducive to a student’s academic, social, and personal growth. Appropriate programs, services, and guidelines are provided to promote a positive residence life program. Catawba requires on campus housing for all full-time students (enrolled in 12 or more credit hours) who are not 21 years of age and who do not room and board with their parents, guardian, or spouse. Students are assigned campus housing facilities through the Office of Student Affairs under Housing and Residence Life.

Please refer to the Housing and Residence Life section on the Catawba website to learn more and to review policies and guidelines! 

CATAWBA 2 CAREER (C2C) SUCCESS CENTER AND DISABILITY SERVICES

The Catawba 2 Career (C2C) Success Center and Disability Services. When you chose to come to Catawba you make a very important decision for an education rich in personal attention. Catawba is proud to be ranked fourth in our region by US News and World Report. The C2C Success Center offers a variety of services to support the Academic Achievement of our students, including Success Coaching, Supplemental Instruction, and Tutoring. Throughout the semester we offer a variety of helpful strategic workshops, such as Planning and Time Management, to our popular ‘Stop Studying and Start Learning’ series.

Catawba recognizes disability as a valued aspect of diversity. As a campus, we understand access as a matter of social justice, and strive to design more welcoming and inclusive environments.

STUDENT ACADEMIC SUCCESS 

Whether you are blazing a trail as a first-generation college student, balancing books and sports as a student-athlete, interested in our unique programs, or immersing yourself in our tight-knit campus community, coming to Catawba is an adventure in self-advocacy, independent living, and learning to balance social life with the rigors of academics. You’ve got big things ahead of you, and we are here to support you on your journey to achieving them.

Dream big about your future. Our Success Coaches are dedicated to helping you realize all of the opportunities and resources that Catawba has to offer you. Consider us your ‘First Stop’ on campus- your guides in navigating your first year here and your allies in connecting you to other resources when needed. We recognize that success looks different for each person who comes to Catawba, and we are eager to partner with you in search of what success looks like for you individually. We are here to coach you through academic, personal, and vocational success. While academics are a key focus, we are equally invested in your success beyond the classroom. We can connect you with internships and travel opportunities that not only offer unique ways of learning and studying but also broaden your perspective of what life at Catawba has in store for you.

OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

The Office of Student Affairs, located in the Cannon Student Center, is home to the Dean of Students, the Special Assistant to the Sr. Vice President and Office Manager for Student Affairs, Housing and Residence Life, Student Activities, the Student Government Association, Conduct, and Counseling Services and Wellness Promotion.

Please see the respective sections on Housing and Residence Life, Intramurals, Student Activities, Conduct, and Counseling and Wellness Promotion.

The Student Government Association’s office is located in The Office of Student Affairs in office 210J. The Executive President and Executive Vice President hold office hours through the semester. Please contact them with any questions you may have.

STUDENT CONDUCT

The conduct office at Catawba works with students and other campus constituents regarding issues of student misconduct and discipline, sexual assault/violence, and campus safety. The office of Student Conduct is located in the Student Affairs Suite located in the Student Affairs Suite. For information about Student Conduct or to book an appointment, please contact Student Affairs. 

CAREER SERVICES

Catawba Career Services assists students with career planning and referrals in the career development process, including resumes, cover letters, personal statements, interviewing, networking, branding, social media, and more. We connect employers and students through interviews, mock interviews, and speakers, and host job fairs and on-campus recruiting events throughout the year.

For help with internships, your resume, interviewing, career planning, or tips on finding a job, contact Michael Frederick ‘05, Director of Internships and Career Planning, at mfrederi20@catawba.edu. Career Services is located on the 1st floor of Hedrick Administration Building. Office hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.

HONORS PROGRAM

Catawba’s Honors Program cultivates a community of academically gifted students who pursue challenging educational experiences with outstanding faculty.

Through interdisciplinary, provocative, and intellectually demanding courses, the Honors Program piques the curiosity of students, encouraging them to become life-long learners whose lives are enriched by their experiences.

Honors students take a series of classes that are distinctive in content and quality- and often team-taught- along with other Honors students; they finish their Honors studies with a senior experience within their major and by providing samples of their work in a portfolio. Honors students travel both domestically and internationally to complete and complement their honors studies.

HEALTH SERVICES

The Proctor Student Health Center is located on the back side of the Cannon Student Center directly across from Foil House Residence Hall (unfortunately, there is no access from inside the Cannon Student Center).

Students may see medical personnel at no charge for minor illnesses. The medical staff can test for flu, pregnancy, strep, mono, and sexually transmitted disease. The Center is staffed Monday-Friday from 8am until 4pm.

Prior to first registration at Catawba, all students are required to complete a health history, provide their immunization record, a copy of the front and back of their health insurance card, and a copy of their COVID vaccine card. Forms should be submitted in the applicant portal.

REGISTRAR

The mission of the Registrar’s Office is to maintain accurate academic records of all students who are or have been enrolled at Catawba; to provide transcripts and other official records as requested by authorized persons; to oversee and facilitate the registration of Catawba students, and to administer the academic policies and regulations established by faculty.

The Registrar’s Office is located in Hedrick Administration Building, Room 137. Questions and requests can be sent to registrar@catawba.edu. 

COUNSELING AND WELLNESS PROMOTION SERVICES

The mission of CWPS is to enhance the quality of life of Catawba students by emphasizing the important of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through educational programs and/or individual counseling sessions. Personal Counseling services are available for day students, free of charge, and can be a great resource for learning ways to adapt to and manage life stressors. Students can schedule appointments for individual counseling with one of our licensed counseling staff for help dealing with family conflict, depression or loneliness, substance abuse, relationship issues, anxiety and stress, sexual assault, financial worries, grief and loss, and many other concerns. Students may schedule appointments with any of our three counselors at their convenience either by emailing them directly or using their appointment booking links below. ALL counseling information is strictly CONFIDENTIAL, is not shared with parents or others unless the student gives permission.

Meet Our Counselors

The counseling services hours of operation are:

• Monday-Thursday: 9am-5pm
• Friday: 9am-3pm

Counseling offices are located in the Student Affairs office of the Cannon Student Center. 

DINING SERVICES

The Cannon Dining Hall is an all-you-can-eat dining hall. Located in the Lower Level of the Cannon Student Center, our Dining Hall has eight different stations that offer a variety of options, from salad, home cooked food, pizza and pasta, the grill, and of course – sweets! Catawba Dining Services has a registered dietitian that provides nutrition information regarding weight management, food allergies and sensitivities, health, and fitness.

Cannon Dining Hall uses your Student ID to swipe into to dining hall or BLUE 51. You can make changes to your meal plan prior to the add/drop date at the beginning of each semester. You may add money to your dining services account at any time during the semester. Hours of Operation are as follows:

SATURDAY:

• Continental Breakfast - 8:00am-10:00am
• Brunch 11:00am-1:30pm
• Dinner 5:00pm-7:00pm

MONDAY-THURSDAY:

• Breakfast 7:30am-10:00am
• Light Breakfast 10:00am-11:00am
• Lunch 11:00am-1:30pm
• Light Lunch 1:30pm-4:00pm
• Dinner 5:00pm-7:30pm

FRIDAY:

• Breakfast 7:30am-10:00am
• Light Breakfast 10:00am-11:00am
• Lunch 11:00am-1:30pm
• Light Lunch 1:30pm-4:00pm
• Dinner 5:00pm-7:00pm

SUNDAY:

• Brunch 11:00am-1:30pm
• Dinner 5:00pm-7:00pm

*Hours may be abbreviated during holidays and dates that the College is closed.

Bowl Life, The Coop, and Starbucks are located in BLUE 51 in the Cannon Student Center. This location offers a wide variety of snacks, meals, coffee and drinks.

Hours of Operation are as follows:

• Mon-Thurs 7:00am-10:00pm
• Friday 7:00am-3:00pm
• Saturday CLOSED
• Sunday 5:00pm-10:00pm

LIBRARY

You can find a variety of resources at the Corriher-Linn-Black Library from study rooms to VR goggles, laptops, online gaming or even 3D printing. If you need help with research, our expert librarians are ready to jump in and teach you research literacy skills.

The Greg and Missie Alcorn Digital Learning Lab includes robotics, 3D printers, laser engravers, iPads, Cricut Maker, a digital video studio, gaming laptops, as well as Surface desktop design computers with Adobe Creative Cloud products and Virtual Reality devices for checkout. For more information, please contact Mr. Zach Trivett, or visit the Digital Learning Lab webpage.

Hours during Academic Year:

• Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-11:00pm (card access only after 5 pm)
• Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Saturday: Closed
• Sunday: 3:00pm-11:00pm

MAIL ROOM

All registered Full-Time Catawba students are assigned a numbered mailbox, which they will keep for their entire time as a Catawba student. The Department of Mail Services provides mailing services to the Catawba Community which includes USPS, FedEx, DHL and UPS. The mail room also sells stamps.

Mail Services is located on the lower level of the Cannon Student Center, located across from the Lerner Wellness Center.

Hours of Operation are 9:00am -4:00 pm and closed on major holidays and when the College is closed.

BOOKSTORE

The Catawba Bookstore has everything you need from textbooks and technology to class supplies and snacks. Show your Catawba pride all year long with our authentic assortment of collegiate apparel – including Catawba t-shirts, sweatshirts, gifts, hats and more. With sizes available for men and women, the whole family can cheer on Catawba in style in fan gear, every season. We’ve got Catawba gift ideas covered, with options ranging from drink ware to gift cards.

Looking for more than clothing and gifts? Our selection of textbooks, general books, computers, course materials, and supplies will ensure every Catawba student is prepared for success. New and used books are available to purchase or rent, as well as online course materials such as codes and digital e-book options to fit any budget.

The Bookstore also offers a wide selection of snacks and convenience items for our students and faculty.

During the school year, Hours of Operation are:

• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9am-4pm
• Thursday: 9am-6pm

During the summer, Hours of Operation are:

• Monday – Thursday: 9am-4pm
• Closed on Friday

ATHLETICS

Catawba is home to 23 NCAA Division II athletic teams. These athletes have access to top scholarship opportunities and financial support options to help keep the focus on their athletic and academic passions. The Athletics Mission Statement is:

To support the overall mission of the college, through the conduct and operation of an athletic program that meets or exceeds the expectations, policies, and regulations of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the South Atlantic Conference (SAC), and the governing bodies of Catawba. Within that support system, the athletic department strives to provide a wholesome environment for every athletic program participant, and an environment that enriches not only the physical lives and learning processes of each individual; but also one that attends to the needs of their academic and social lives as well.

FINANCIAL AID

Financial Aid is a great help for students wishing to earn a college degree or taking courses for professional or personal development. Both evening and day programs have different structures and costs. A student MUST be pursuing a degree in order to be eligible for financial aid.

Catawba offers financial aid to qualified students in two ways: The North Carolina Need-based Scholarship and the Federal and State assistance based on the results of the FASFA need analysis, which is obtained through an application process. Need-based aid comes from Federal and/or State sources.

Catawba’s Financial Aid Office is home to our Work Study Program. If you are or are not qualified for Work Study and have questions, please visit their office to find out more information.

CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

The Glenn and Addie Ketner Center for International Studies at Catawba College seeks to provide students with international study opportunities that are academically challenging and relevant to their fields of study. These learning opportunities are academically rigorous, professionally relevant, and personally enriching. This is accomplished by short-term faculty-led trips, intensive foreign language instruction, and semester-long programs. International education connects Catawba College students to diverse world cultures and prepares our students for work and service in this increasingly interdependent world. This aligns with the College’s mission to provide an education rich in personal attention, blending liberal studies with career preparation.

SAFEZONE APP (CATAWBA CONNECT)

Catawba Connect is a free app with 24-hour access to Public Safety to get help if you need in just one click. In the event of an emergency, the app allows you to quickly share your location and details with the local response team who will be able to get the right assistance to you. Features include:

• Check-in and Check-in Timer feature which allows you to share your live location with security responders if working alone or feeling vulnerable.
• Automatic alert sent on your behalf if you fail to extend or cancel the check-in timer. This is ideal if you are in areas of increased risk and want additional peace of mind.
• Reporting non-urgent concerns straight to Public Safety, as well as notifying you in the event of an emergency on site.

Download the app below:

ATHLETICS

Catawba is home to 24 NCAA Division II athletic teams. These athletes have access to top scholarship opportunities and financial support options to help keep the focus on their athletic and academic passions. The Athletics Mission Statement is:

To support the overall mission of the college, through the conduct and operation of an athletic program that meets or exceeds the expectations, policies, and regulations of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the South Atlantic Conference (SAC), and the governing bodies of Catawba. Within that support system, the athletic department strives to provide a wholesome environment for every athletic program participant, and an environment that enriches not only the physical lives and learning processes of each individual; but also one that attends to the needs of their academic and social lives as well.

ESPORTS

Esports is a form of competitive gaming commonly associated with multiplayer video games played between professional players and teams. Esports at Catawba is a varsity competitive program initiative to create a co-ed experience not just for players and the community, but those looking to hone their skills in management, broadcasting, communications, and more. The Esports facilities have two locations in the Cannon Student Center - 1st floor across the hall from the Hurley Room and 2nd floor across the hall from Student Affairs. With the latest in technology, student-athletes kicked off varsity play in the Spring 2019 semester.

View the Catawba College academic calendar for important dates to keep in mind throughout the year. 

THEY CAN/WILL HELP YOU!

Sharon Newsome 
Special Assistant to the Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer / Office Manager for Student Affairs 

David Najarian
Director of Public Safety 

Dr. Monica Cowart
Executive Vice President and Provost

Rev. Kendra Joyner-Miller
Chaplain and Director of the Lilly Center

Dr. James Hand 
Dean of the School of Health and Human Performance

Dr. Sheila Brownlow 
Director of First-Year Seminar and First-Year Advising

Dr. Lee Ball
Executive Director of Catawba Center for the Environment

Dr. Maria Vandergriff-Avery 
Director of Honors Program

Allison Wilson
Director of Proctor Student Health Center

Daryl Bruner
Title IX Coordinator

Michael Frederick ‘05 
Director of Internships and Career Planning

Kelli Hand
Director of Financial Aid

Daryl Bruner 
Director of Training and Professional Development

Bonny King 
Welcome Center Coordinator

Daniel F. Diaz 
Director, Glenn and Addie Ketner Center for International Studies

The Office of Public Safety at Catawba is established to provide quality service in partnership with our community to ensure a safe and secure environment that will support and enhance the learning process. They are committed to the prevention of crime and the protection of life and property; the preservation of peace, order, and safety; the enforcement of laws of the State of North Carolina along with the rules and regulations of Catawba.

With community service as their foundation, they are driven by goals to enhance the quality of campus life, investigating problems as well as incidents, seeking solutions and fostering a sense of security through programs reflecting the needs and desires of the Catawba community. They nurture trust by holding themselves to the highest standards of performance and ethics.

If you feel unsafe on campus, or see something that is not right, please call Public Safety at 704-637-4000. They will come to you and walk with you or drive you to the location that you need to get to.

The Catawba Public Safety Office is responsible for Student ID’s. If your ID card was stolen, lost, broken, or just won’t work, call Public Safety and they will help you fix the problem.

If you are locked out of your residence hall after office hours during the week or on the weekend, please call Public Safety and they will be able to let you in.

Catawba Public Safety is also in charge of parking.

Public Safety is here to keep the campus and the students safe!

View a list of current discounts offered by our area business partners to students who show their Catawba ID!