A Vibrant Tapestry: Exploring Student Life at Fordham University
Fordham University offers a rich and multifaceted student life experience, fostering growth, connection, and a strong sense of community. From academic engagement to extracurricular activities and support services, Fordham provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive.
Student Life Council Initiatives
The Fordham University Student Life Council (SLC) plays a vital role in shaping the student experience. The SLC actively addresses student needs and concerns through regular meetings and initiatives. In a recent meeting, the SLC discussed a range of topics, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing student life.
External Affairs and Community Engagement
Assistant Vice President and Director of the Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) Keisha Shay, Ph.D., presented the role of the External Affairs department within the Fordham community to the SLC. In November 2024, Fordham created a new division of External Affairs to expand Fordham’s connections to both its immediate surroundings and to partners in other outside organizations. According to Shay, “[Our purpose is] to elevate the existing work, forging new partnerships with purpose.” Shay highlighted Advocacy Days and encouraged students to visit fordham.edu/externalaffairs to learn more about Fordham University’s External Affairs.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Chair of SLC Reese McDonald and Dean of Students Kevin Williams brought up the ongoing idea for a long-term food pantry on campus. Editor-In-Chief Emeritus of The Paper Adam Serfilippi, FCRH ’26, inquired whether the permanent pantry would primarily serve Fordham students or the broader community. The Ram Features Editor Emeritus Andrew Massie, FCRH ’27, raised questions about the sourcing of food and monetary donations.
Health and Safety
Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Residential Life Charles Clency reported that so far this semester, there were eight instances of intoxes, or cases where a student was taken to the hospital due to intoxication.
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Campus Activities and Entertainment
Co-President of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) Emma Seber, GSB ’26, announced that CAB found the hosts for Spring Weekend entertainment, but that it will be announced closer to the event. Seber also noted that CAB is collaborating with Fordham’s Black Student Alliance on their 2026 Black History Month Keynote event.
Opportunities for Growth and Connection
Fordham provides ample opportunities for students to get involved, develop their skills, and build lasting relationships.
The Ram Newspaper
Emma Leonardi, a junior from Washington, D.C., double majoring in English and psychology with a journalism minor, exemplifies the dedication and passion found among Fordham students. Over the past year and a half, she has worked her way through the news ranks from contributing writer, to staff writer, to assistant news editor and all the way up to her new role as news editor (with a brief stint as an executive copy editor). She is also president of a book club on campus and a WFUV Sports trainee.
Career Development and Networking
Fordham prepares students for success beyond graduation. One student noted, “The Fordham name helped make my resume stand out at these bigger companies where I never thought I would have a chance." Another student shared, “I had the chance to connect with individuals both within my team and across the organization. And now, having a full-time job offer at the start of my senior year makes me feel very confident and secure." A student interning at a major media company said, “I get to work at the company that owns Cosmo and Elle and Harper's Bazaar, and get to pass all these cool people at work every day and know I’m part of it." Another student emphasized the importance of teamwork and responsibility, stating, “This was my first job ever. It’s taught me a lot of skills, like how to be a good team member. It was a lot of work. It was a lot of responsibility. But the people were amazing." Finally, a student highlighted the value of mentorship and networking, saying, “The meaningful relationships I was able to build throughout this program really showed me how important networking and having mentors is."
A Welcoming and Inclusive Community
Fordham University embraces diversity and fosters an inclusive environment for all students. Fordham University admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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