Written by Nellie Griffin | Content Development Specialist

From campus accommodations to airport shuttles, here's how Student Affairs helps Cumberlands students stay supported, connected, and on track.

At University of the Cumberlands, the Office of Student Affairs is here to support you every step of the way—spiritually, mentally, physically, academically, and socially. This holistic, student-centered approach ensures every Patriot has access to the resources and guidance needed to thrive in college and beyond.

Student Affairs handles a wide variety of services, many of which go far beyond academics. To break it down, Annalyne Woodward, a current student worker and proud Patriot, shared five key ways this team can make your life as a college student a whole lot easier.

1. Track and Submit Volunteer Hours with Ease

“As a student at Cumberlands, you’ll turn in your service hours to Student Affairs so they can keep everything on record,” said Woodward. “It helps you stay organized, and if you need help finding places to volunteer, they’ll connect you with options in the area.”

Whether you’re logging hours for a class, scholarship, or personal growth, Student Affairs helps ensure your time is accounted for. They also work closely with local organizations to connect students with meaningful volunteer opportunities near campus. 

2. Help with Non-Academic Accommodations

“Not every accommodation is about academics,” Woodward shared. “Some students may need mobility support, housing adjustments, or even dining accommodations due to allergies or medical needs. Student Affairs helps with that.”

From mobility access and housing needs to dietary accommodations in college dining halls, the Office of Student Affairs advocates for students and helps coordinate solutions to make everyday life more manageable. 

3. Student ID Support and Replacements

 “Your student ID is pretty important here,” said Woodward. “If you lose it, Student Affairs can replace it for $10. But if your card just stops working, they’ll fix it for free. Just bring it in!” 

Student IDs are essential for daily life at Cumberlands. Whether you're accessing the dorms, grabbing lunch, or printing assignments, your ID is the key. Thankfully, if it's lost or malfunctioning, Student Affairs makes getting a replacement fast and easy. 

4. Airport Shuttle Services

“A lot of students fly home for the holidays,” Woodward explained. “Student Affairs sometimes offers a shuttle to the Knoxville airport during major breaks like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s super helpful if you don’t have a car.”

If you're traveling long-distance or don’t have reliable transportation, the campus-to-airport shuttle service makes heading home easier and more affordable. Just be sure to reserve your seat early because it fills up fast during peak seasons!

5. A Go-To Resource for Campus Life Questions

“Sometimes students come in just because they don’t know where else to go,” Woodward said. “And that’s okay. Even if they can’t help directly, Student Affairs will point you in the right direction.”

Whether you’re unsure where to turn or need help navigating a new situation, Student Affairs serves as a central hub for student support. If they can't help, they’ll connect you with someone who can.

Final Thoughts: Helping You Feel at Home

College can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. The Office of Student Affairs at University of the Cumberlands is here to help you feel at home, stay connected, and access the tools you need to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom.