Samford University’s Office of Student Success and Diversity will host Lead with Love week April 14–18, a campuswide celebration highlighting the power of compassionate leadership, inclusive community and servant-hearted action.
Through a week of collaborative events, the initiative aims to equip students, faculty and staff with tools to lead with empathy, integrity and conviction.
“Lead with Love is more than a theme—it’s a call to action,” said De’Janae Tookes, executive director of multicultural initiatives. “Now more than ever, our communities need leadership grounded in love, compassion and a deep commitment to collective well-being. This week invites us not only into reflection but also into action—to lead and serve others through love.”
This signature initiative cultivates a campus culture of dignity, care and intentional leadership.
“The 2025 lineup offers a dynamic mix of programming—including interactive conversations, student-led discussions and artistic worship experiences,” Tookes said. “Each event is thoughtfully designed to engage all parts of our campus community.”
Throughout the week, the Samford community is invited to participate in conversations that allow us to reflect on the importance of leading with love.
“As we engage in conversations, events and moments of connection, may we be reminded that true leadership begins with empathy,” Tookes said. “As Jesus reminds us in Matthew 22:39, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ May this call shape how we lead, serve and show up for one another.”
In addition to the events happening during Lead with Love week, a monthly event series will launch in the fall semester which will provide more opportunities for the Samford community to further develop the themes introduced during the week.
Lead with Love Events
What It Means to Lead with Love – Leadership Panel
- Monday, April 14
- 4:30 p.m.
- Cooney Hall 400B, Regions Community Resource Room
Convocation credit is available.
Lead with Love Note Campaign with Miss Samford Jayla Duncan
- Tuesday, April 15
- 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Ben Brown Plaza
Spread kindness by writing thoughtful notes to uplift your peers and make someone's day a little brighter.
Lead with Love Faculty Luncheon
- Tuesday, April 15
- 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Cooney Hall 400, Regions Community Resource Room
An opportunity for faculty to engage in meaningful conversation and share insights on fostering inclusive, supportive and compassionate leadership in the classroom and beyond.
Spring Gospel Choir Concert
- Wednesday, April 16
- 4:30 p.m.
- Reid Chapel
Join us for an uplifting evening of soulful worship.
Convocation credit is available.
Lead with Love Common Ground
- Thursday, April 17
- 10 a.m.
- Harry's Coffeehouse
Join us for an open and heartfelt discussion with MAC students on leading with love and fostering community.
Convocation credit is available.
Poverty Simulation
- Thursday, April 17
- 4:30 p.m.
- Cooney Hall 401
An interactive experience that challenges participants to navigate life with limited resources, fostering empathy and awareness of poverty’s impact.
Convocation credit is available.
T-Shirt Giveaway and Banner Signing Campaign
- Friday, April 18
- 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Ben Brown Plaza
Join us for the t-shirt giveaway and banner signing campaign. Attend three events throughout the week to receive a free t-shirt (while supplies last) and commit to leading with love.
