The Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education & the Arts (OSHEA), is home to a variety of subjects spanning the social sciences, humanities, creative writing, public service,  education, and fine arts degrees. These degrees serve several of the noble professions: teachers, law enforcement, and public service, though in fact any degree offered in this school prepares students for success across any professional goal. 

OSHEA is filled with faculty who develop in students the skills of analysis, expression, service to others, and an understanding of the human experience throughout history. They will guide you as you develop practical and philosophical skills to prepare you for a life of learning. Whether history is your passion or you were born to be a future educator, OSHEA faculty will prepare you with the critical thinking skills to create the change you want to see in the world.

On behalf of the faculty of the Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education & the Arts (OSHEA), I want to congratulate you on becoming a member of the Cumberland University family. You are joining us at an exciting time, and I look forward to getting to know you throughout your time at CU. 

The OSHEA School is a catalyst for lifelong learning and success in a variety of career paths available to you. Faculty will encourage you to develop critical thinking skills and lay educational foundations that will allow you to interact with others more deeply and thrive intellectually, professionally, personally, and spiritually. 

I’d like to leave you with some tips to success that I’ve learned throughout my career in higher education: 

1. Ask questions. College is a time of learning, and asking questions is one of the best ways to learn. Never be afraid to ask a question, whether it’s throughout the registration process, at orientation or in class.
2. Ask for help. Remember, we are here because of you. CU is full of people willing to help you, whether it’s another student, a professor, a staff member or a dean. We’re here to help you succeed, but if you don’t ask for help, we may not know you need it.
3. Get involved. Many studies have shown that the key to student success and retention is involvement. Find something that connects you to CU, whether you join a student organization, are part of a sports team, participate in an academic club or attend one of our many campus activities, the relationships you build at CU will make all the difference. 

I wish you all the best in this coming year, and I look forward to meeting you in person. If you see me on campus, please do not hesitate to come say hello. 

Welcome to the Phoenix family!

Dr. Eric Cummings

Dean of the Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education & the Arts