Campus Life

Get Involved!

You’re ready for college, and you want the complete ride. Thankfully, you chose Cleveland State Community College, where we make every effort to provide the total college experience.

In addition to classroom participation and studies, you’ll have ample opportunity to interact with the entire campus community. Whether you participate in Student Senate, Student Host Ambassadors, or one of more than 15 campus organizations, your college experience will be full and unforgettable!

Don’t think you want to get involved? You may be interested to learn that those who do get involved in campus activities are more likely to have a successful, enjoyable college experience and develop lifelong relationships more often. Ready now? Then look around to see what CSCC offers to make college a great experience!

Fitness Center

A well-equipped facility with a variety of cardiovascular equipment, strength training equipment and free weights is available at no charge to all current Cleveland State Community College students and employees. The center is staffed with friendly professionals who can help you understand the equipment, create an exercise program to meet your needs and interests or offer to spot you when lifting weights.

A Cleveland State student ID must be presented to gain access to the Fitness Center. Stop in today and let us help you start exercising your way to a healthier lifestyle.

If you have a friend or know someone who wishes to utilize the CSCC Fitness Center but is not a student or employee, community memberships are available for $15 per month, $50 per semester (Fall, Spring or Summer) or $125 per year.

Equipment Checkout

Basketballs, tennis rackets and balls for use in the gymnasium are available at the control desk in the Fitness Center. You may check out equipment by providing the center with something of personal value.

Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.
*All hours are subject to change, especially during summer sessions and college breaks.

Office of Student Engagement & Support

The Office of Student Engagement and Support (OSES) is dedicated to enhancing campus life by providing students with opportunities to connect, lead, and thrive. The significant functions of the OSES office are to plan, manage, and assess the effectiveness of the college’s student life programs and collaborate with other college units and external constituents to assist the college in meeting enrollment and student success goals. We oversee student activities, clubs and organizations, the Student Senate, and the Cougar Den Food Pantry and expansion services. We encourage students to explore our programs that promote involvement to discover ways to engage in campus events, join student organizations, and access support services that enrich their college experience.

For more information, please contact:

Natalia.Williams@cscctn.edu, Student Engagement & Support Director

Carolina.Roman@cscctn.edu, Student Engagement Coordinator Student Center Building U-102

Resources for Clubs & Organizations

Interested in joining a club or two (or three or four!)?? The clubs are all described below. Click the link above to access the clubs sign-up, where you can enter your contact info and have it automatically sent to the club advisors for the groups you select.

Clubs are labeled if they hold physical meetings at the Athens Center.

Alpha Delta Nu - Beta Omicron Chapter

The mission of the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society is to recognize the academic excellence of students in the study of Associate Degree Nursing. The society encourages the pursuit of advance degrees in the profession of nursing as well as continuing education as a life-long professional responsibility. Membership is by invitation for students who are actively enrolled in the nursing program. Club advisors are Desireé McCarthy (desiree’.mccarthy@cscctn.edu) and Ashley McEwen
(ashley.mcewen@cscctn.edu).

Baptist Collegiate Ministries (Also meets at McMinn Higher Education Center)

The Baptist Collegiate Ministry (or BCM) is a faith-based student organization. This club has its own facility adjacent to the Cleveland campus, across from the Health and Science Center. In Cleveland, the BCM offers a Worship Night for students every Monday at 7pm. This time is dedicated to learning more about Jesus Christ and building community with other college students. On Thursdays, the BCM offers a Free Lunch to all students and staff from 11am-12:30pm. At the Athens location, the BCM meets every other week for Bible Study and a meal. In addition to weekly events, the BCM also organizes retreats, service projects, mission trips, events, and more for students. The BCM is supported by Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, but activities are open to college-age students of all faiths and backgrounds! The BCM building is open every weekday for students to study, eat lunch, hang out, or rest in between classes.

Choir Club

The Choir Club is comprised of a group of interested students and faculty members who come together for the enjoyment of vocal music. Musical selections are taught and performed during each semester, providing both vocal education and enrichment to the club members. The club meets with the school’s choir, Vocal Rhapsody, every Tuesday and Thursday from 12-1:20pm. The sponsor for this group is faculty member Andie Phillips, and her contact information is listed below: andie.phillips@cscctn.edu

The Curtain Call Society

Curtain Call is a club that encourages students to explore and develop their talents through theater productions and performance opportunities. Theater is much more than acting. It also involves stage crews, set design, costumes, lighting and sound technicians, artists, and other creative individuals who work together to bring a production to life.

Members will have the opportunity to learn more about the theater production process, develop new skills, and connect with fellow students who share an interest in the performing arts. Whether you already have a passion for theater or are simply curious about getting involved, Curtain Call provides a welcoming environment to learn, create, and collaborate.

No previous theater experience is required. Everyone is welcome! Club meetings are Wednesdays from 12-1 p.m. in H-107.

For more information, contact Holly Shiveley in H121 or email holly.shiveley@cscctn.edu.

Education Club

To help present and future educational allies become more confident and prepared child advocators by providing opportunities to learn, network, volunteer, and gain real-world experience.

Membership is open to all Cleveland State students with an interest in education, particularly students who are planning or considering a career working with children or in the field of education.

Club Advisor:
Michelle Gomes
Director of Early Childhood/Education
Cleveland State Community College

Meeting Location:
Education Club meetings will be held on the Cleveland Campus in H-216 (Education Lab).

A virtual meeting option will also be available for students who are unable to attend meetings in person.

Education Club members will have opportunities to participate in professional development, community service, campus events, educational activities, networking opportunities, and other experiences designed to support their growth as future education professionals.

Fiber Arts Club

The Fibers Arts Club at Cleveland State Community College provides a welcoming and creative space for crafters of various fiber mediums, including crocheting, knitting, and needle arts. Students are allowed to work on individual and group projects, and either learn a fiber art as a beginner, or simply enjoy some time spent with other more experienced crafters. The club also hosts workshops with guest speakers, and crafting tools, such as crochet hooks, can be available for interested members who are brand new to these skills. All are welcome to learn and to grow with us as a fiber arts community, and we look forward to seeing you. For more information, contact our Faculty Sponsor Ms. Andie Phillips at andie.phillips@cscctn.edu

First Gen Students Club

The First-Generation Students Club is open to all Cleveland State Community College students who are the first in their family to attend college or who support the first-generation student experience. The club provides opportunities for students to connect with peers, build leadership skills, explore campus and community resources, and celebrate the achievements of first-generation college students. Through meetings, events, guest speakers, and service opportunities, members gain support and encouragement as they navigate their college journey.

Faculty Advisors:
Angi Hawn, Student Success Advisor
angala.hawn@cscctn.edu

Eric Harris
eric.harris@cscctn.edu

Meeting Location:
Student Center (near the vending machines)

Meeting Time:
Fall 2026 meetings: Please check CougarNet and campus announcements for meeting dates and updates.

LEO Club

This club serves our community and is sponsored by the Lions Club. The LEO Motto is Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity. As a club we help serve the community by participating in different community service projects and contribute as responsible members of our community. Our goal is to promote student engagement both on and off campus and develop leadership skills. Students will gather to SERVE the community with opportunities available. For more information contact Juliann Mathis juliann.mathis@cscctn.edu or 423-473-2427.

Medical Assisting Student Association

This club promotes the identity and stature of its members and the medical assisting profession through community service, education and providing credentials. For information, contact the Medical Assisting Program Director at 423-614-8702.

Multicultural Club

Celebrate and Embrace Diverse Cultures. Get Involved! This club is all about celebrating YOU—your culture, your background, and what makes you unique! We promote awareness, acceptance, and appreciation of the many cultures represented on our campus. Through fun events, meaningful conversations, and community-building activities, we aim to create a more vibrant student experience. Want to learn more or get involved? Reach out to our club sponsor at Carolina.Roman@cscctn.edu or call 423.473.2421. Office Location: U102 / 108B

Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is a national honors society, which recognizes members who maintain a 3.2 GPA or higher. We come together to represent CSCC positively and to set a respectable academic example. Contact the advisor for meeting information.

Club advisors contact information:
sara.amato@cscctn.edu
xiaohui.li@cscctn.edu

Skills USA

This club is available to CSCC students interested in communicating with their peers in our various fields of study incorporated within the SkillsUSA Competitions at the local, state and national levels. SkillsUSA is a leadership organization for career and technical students in secondary and college level institutions. You can find out more about the club by contacting Chuck Barkley at charles.barkley@cscctn.edu or Ralph Gwaltney at ralph.gwaltney@cscctn.edu. For more info on SkillsUSA, please visit their website at www.skillsusa.org.

Speech & Debate

Speech and Debate will help you discover the power of the spoken word — to influence, to inspire, to express for an audience feelings that are buried in them that they have not articulated. Subsequently, individuals actively engaging in Speech and Debate activities are often more prepared to speak clearly during interviews, demonstrate a professional presence, and clearly explain ideas and abilities, especially when put on the spot. Indeed, there are many reasons why debating in college can lead to you debating all the job offers on the table post-graduation! This team practices weekly at both Cleveland and online, as well as travels to tournaments. See coach Laurie Rowland (ext. 333) for more information.

STEM Club

The STEM Club is open to all students who enjoy science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, whether you’re a STEM major or just curious about STEM activities. Come meet other students and faculty, participate in hands-on experiments and activities, explore STEM careers, and take part in field trips and other fun events. The club also supports and mentors students interested in STEM competitions and shares information about internships and scholarships when available. For more information, email Kimberly Harrington at kimberly.harrington@cscctn.edu.

Student Art League

The Student Art League is a club where artists and students interested in the arts can come together to create, discuss and engage in visual art events on and off campus. You do not have to be an artist or an art major to join. For more information, contact Bethany Coffin (ext. 431 or G-024).
Meetings: Mondays at 12:15pm in the art studio.

Student Senate

Student Senate is the students’ voice to the administration. The Student Senate strives to improve the quality of student life through legislation as well as through the programs and activities it promotes.

Veterans Connection

Veterans Connection is a student organization at Cleveland State Community College that brings student veterans, military connected students, and allies together. We build community, share resources, and help veterans feel connected and supported on campus.

The Wildlife Society

The Wildlife Society at Cleveland State serves to connect students with professionals in the Wildlife and Fisheries field and to provide hands-on experience in Wildlife Management techniques. Interested in becoming a part of this engaging organization? Contact Robert Brewer at robert.brewer@cscctn.edu or 423-473-2342 for more information.

OSES Events Calendar

To access the Office of Student Engagement & Support (OSES) Students Events Calendar click here.

Guidelines & Standards

Club standards, established for recognized student organizations of Cleveland State Community College, are as follows:

  • To have one or more advisors who are members of the college faculty or staff.
  • To submit to The Office of Student Engagement and Support no later than the last week of September of each year, a report consisting of:
    • A complete list of eligible officers and members.
    • A general statement of purpose or constitution and bylaws.
    • The signature of acceptance of the advisor. (The group advisor must approve this report.)
    • Names of officers for the coming year.
    • Name of Student Senate representative and alternate.
  • To limit membership to students of Cleveland State Community College.
  • To limit activities of the group, and in so far as possible those of its individual members, to conduct which is within the limits of city, country, state, federal and college regulations.
  • To recognize the president of the group as the administrative head spokesman. He/she signs petitions for the group and agrees to the college regulations.

Any social functions scheduled must be submitted on a form and approved by the Vice President of Student Services.

Failure to meet these prescribed standards or for the infraction of any regulation of the Vice President of Student Services may be penalized by:

  • Denial of recognition of the group as an organization.
  • Denial of use of college facilities.
  • Forfeiture of right to representation in other college organizations, Student Senate, etc.
  • Forfeiture of right to representation in the Student Handbook or other publications.
  • Denial of privilege of some or all social activities for a definite period.
  • Forfeiture of right to function as a group, including forfeiture of charter. The vice president of Student Services and the president of CSCC must approve this penalty.

Food Pantry

The Cleveland State Cougar Den Food Pantry has been established to address the short-term food insecurity among our student body. It operates through generous donations from our dedicated staff, faculty, and students. In addition, we have secured partnerships with various businesses and non-profit organizations to guarantee that we can fully support the nutritional needs of our students at no cost.

*Please note that the Cougar Den Food Pantry and Expansion Center hours may vary during the summer terms. We encourage students to check their emails for updated hours before visiting.

Cougar Den Food Pantry Hours of Operation:

Cleveland Campus
Office of the Student of Engagement and Support
Student Center Building U-108b
MON-FRI 8:00am-4:30pm

Temporary Food Relief
Cougar Den Food Pantry Expansion: Providing Temporary Relief for Students
Here’s what you need to know:
· Must present your Student ID at the OSES Office to receive food (U-102).
· Assistance is available once per day.
· To ensure a smooth experience, only three students will be allowed in at a time.
Thank you for your understanding — we’re here to support you!

Hours of Operation:
Cleveland Campus – Student Center Building U-101 – MON-FRI 8:00am-4:30pm

McMinn Higher Education Center
Off-Campus Instructional Site
Student Vending Lounge
M-126
MON, WED, THUR, & FRI: 8:00am-4:30pm
TUE: 8:00am-8:00pm

For more information, please contact the Office of Student Engagement and Support at 423.614.8744.

Student Leadership

Are you a born leader? Do you enjoy giving back to the community? Do you want to have a fun college experience? Cleveland State has many activities, clubs and services that student can get involved in to help make their college experience rewarding and memorable. There are many opportunities offered that can help empower and prepare you for your future.

You can get involved in Student Senate, join various clubs, participate in campus events or become involved in community service activities through Service Learning.

Take the first step toward growing your leadership potential by stopping by the Office of Student Engagement and Support (U102/108b) for further details.