The Executive Committee of Samford University’s Board of Trustees approved new faculty, a new academic program and candidates for summer graduation during their telephone meeting on June 23.

Sixty-three candidates for summer graduation were approved by the trustees. Following their vote, they continued their long-standing tradition of praying for the students as they prepare to graduate.

Trustees also approved a new academic program, a Bachelor of Science in Game Design and 3D Animation. In this technology-rich major, students will learn character-focused 3D animation storytelling, live-rendering game engine programming, 3D modeling, programming and other digital 3D technical specialty skills. The program is a collaboration between the Division of Art and Design in Samford’s School of the Arts and the Math and Computer Science Department in Howard College of Arts and Sciences.

Six new faculty members in Howard College of Arts and Sciences and Brock School of Business were approved. Human Development and Family Life Education Professor Clara Gerhardt’s appointment as Distinguished Professor in Orlean Beeson School of Education was also approved. Gerhardt, who is a licensed clinical psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and certified family life educator, has previously served as department chair as well as two terms as chair of the State Board of Examiners in Psychology.

The university’s operating budget for fiscal year 2021 was reviewed and accepted. An update on the university’s Forever Samford campaign reported receipt of cash, property and pledges exceeding $186 million, representing nearly 62% of the $300 million campaign goal. Trustees received reports on the university’s response to COVID-19, budget planning, enrollment, advancement, and marketing.