Student Advocacy and Support

The Office of Student Advocacy and Support is dedicated to working collaboratively to assist students in navigating challenges that impede academic and personal success. We connect students to resources, advocate, and educate the greater SMU community to create a safe, caring, and enriching environment.

We oversee the Caring Community Connections (CCC) program and The Shop food pantry. They work directly with and provide support to any SMU student who may be struggling outside the classroom and assist in getting them connected to appropriate available resources.

  • Red circle with white letters "CCC" running diagonally top left to bottom right with words "Caring Community Connections" in blue circling around the red circle.

    Caring Community Connections Program

    The Caring Community Connections (CCC) Program provides support to students who are experiencing challenges by identifying and linking them to appropriate resources. Report various concerns through the CCC form, including issues of economic hardship.

    Learn More and Submit a CCC Form

  • The Shop at SMU - Blue Circle Logo

    The Shop

    You cannot study, work, or perform if you are hungry, and we want to help! The Shop is available to current SMU students in need.

    Learn More About The Shop

  • Medical Withdrawal

    Students may experience medical and/or psychological concerns that significantly impact their ability to fulfill academic obligations. In these instances, students may request to withdraw from the university for a period of time to focus on treatment for these concerns prior to returning to campus. Learn more about about how to request, and then return from, a Medical Withdrawal.

    Medical Withdrawal Request Process

  • Student Emergency Fund

    The SMU Student Emergency Fund (SEF) may be available to currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate credential and/or degree seeking students who experience an emergency. Learn more about this support program designed to help students with an economic hardship or financial emergency.

    Student Emergency Fund

Navigating a bumpy road and knowing the signs of distress

If you are interested in training or a presentation about this information, please contact us at 214-768-4564 or deanofstudents@smu.edu.

Learn How Our Office Can Help