Resident Shepherd
The Resident Shepherd ministry at Liberty University provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with their peers on residence halls in cultivating their spiritual growth and development. Resident Shepherds serve as spiritual leaders who help build community and equip students to practically live out their faith in a real-world context. The Office of LU Shepherd oversees these student leaders and offers distinctive mentorship, training, and coaching to both guide them in their roles as spiritual leaders, as well as support them in their own personal journey with Christ.
In addition, each Resident Shepherd works alongside a partner to oversees a team of Community Group Leaders. Together they strive to build deep relationships with their fellow students creating a healthy hall community. Because students in this leadership position pursue various degree programs while at Liberty, Resident Shepherd ministry specifically allows students to see their role in the Great Commission through their relationships, their vocation, and their passions, no matter their future pursuits.
Become a Resident Shepherd
Eligibility
To become a Resident Shepherd you must be able to meet or exceed the following expectations in order to apply.
1. Leadership Expectations
- Mature and growing disciple of Jesus, well-grounded in Scripture
- Solid reputation, living a life above reproach
- Able to articulate and communicate the gospel effectively
- Active member of the local church, and/or under the watch-care of a local church in the Lynchburg area
- Knowledgeable about the mission and purpose of the church
- Genuine love for people with demonstrated relational skills
- Ability to both challenge and encourage others in their walk with the Lord
- Humble demeanor and a teachable spirit
- Consistent and reliable
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Committed to the purpose of the Resident Shepherd Ministry reflecting the vision, values, and mission of The Office of Spiritual Development and LU Shepherd
- Previous student leadership experience
2. Academic and Conduct Standards
- Must be enrolled at Liberty during the application process
- Sets the standard as a leader in the area of academics. This includes setting an example in study habits, homework, class attendance and a positive attitude toward professors and classes
- Applicants must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA or above at the time of selection and must maintain a semester 2.5 GPA each subsequent semester throughout their tenure of service.
- Past discipline records may be considered during the application process.
3. Availability to Carry Out Responsibilities
- Due to conflict in leadership duties and responsibilities, students should not apply if any of the following are true
- You will be required to student teach during the upcoming academic year
- You will be a junior in the Nursing Major
- You are on an athletic team, the debate team, or the marching band
- Applicants in certain academic or extracurricular programs that could pose a significant challenge to fulfilling Resident Shepherd responsibilities will be evaluated and considered more prudently.
- The Resident Shepherd schedule during the academic year has certain blackout days that Resident Shepherds are required to be on campus. These include but are not limited to Orientation Training, Move-In Day, Global Focus Week, Commencement activities, and other events directed or promoted by the Office of Spiritual Development and the Office of LU Shepherd.
2025-2026 Calendar of Selection
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RS Interest Meeting | Tuesday, October 1st | School of Business, Towns Auditorium | 6:00 PM
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RS Application Open | Tuesday, October 1st
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Applications Due | Friday, October 25th by Midnight
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RS Recommendation Due | Tuesday, October 29th
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First Round Cuts Announced | Friday, November 8th
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Interview Meeting | Monday, November 11th | School of Business, Towns Auditorium | 6:00 PM
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Interview Week One | November 18th- 22nd
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Interview Week Two | December 3rd- 12th
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Interview Week Three | January 20th – 24th
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Resident Shepherd Team Reveal | Friday, January 31st
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Contract Signing | Tuesday, February 4th | School of Business, Towns Auditorium | 6:00 PM
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Placement Announcement | Friday, February 21st
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CGL Fair (Women) | Thursday, February 27th
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CGL Fair (Men) | Monday, March 3rd