Emergency Procedures
Baptist University of Florida has a formal Emergency Response Plan. Every attempt will be made to inform the campus community of emergencies in a timely manner utilizing the emergency notification system.
Inclement Weather
Decisions affecting classes and university operations will be made by the President no later than 7 a.m. (local time) on the day in question and will be announced through area radio and television stations, email, and the emergency notification system.
On Campus Emergencies
Major emergencies encompass such disasters as fire, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, chemical spills, and military action. Should any of these events occur, the President of the university or his designee may declare a state of emergency and order evacuation of all or part of the campus. Evacuation shall be supervised by the AVP of Operations and Development and the Housing Office. (See the Appendices for assigned storm shelter).
In the event of injury to a student, employee, or campus visitor, first call 911 and then contact the AVP of Operations and Development.
In the event of a national disaster or explosion, seek shelter in the assigned shelter, an interior doorway or under a desk or table. After debris ceases to fall, evacuate the building and contact the AVP of Operations and Development. Assist the disabled and wounded during evacuation and follow the directions of university or civil authorities.
In the event of a fire, sound the fire alarm and evacuate the building. Call 911 and then contact the AVP of Operations and Development and the Graceville Fire Department (850-263-3214). Do not re-enter the building.
In the event of a man-made hazard (e.g., chemical spill, radiation leakage), evacuate the building or area immediately. Then call 911 and then contact the AVP of Operations and Development.
Emergency Contact numbers
In case of emergency, please contact:
AVP of Operations and Development - 334.791.6720
Campus Safety and Security
Baptist University of Florida shall make available an Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report to all enrolled students and current employees by Oct. 1, of each school year. Distribution of the annual security report shall be accomplished by posting the report on a website and by giving notice through emailing students and employees that the report is available on a specified web address and by advising that a paper copy is available on request.
Prospective students and employees shall also be advised of the availability of the report.
Policies for Reporting Criminal Actions
Distribution of Annual Crime Report
The annual crime report will be prepared and distributed by the AVP of Operations and Development. A copy will be available in the office and on the website. All students will be emailed a copy of the crime report to their university email address.
Crime Reporting
All crimes on campus are to be reported to the AVP of Operations and Development. If necessary, call 911 first.
Access to Campus Facilities
Students are not permitted in BUF buildings and classrooms after regular hours. Anyone requiring access after- hours must notify the Campus Safety Office. Anyone gaining unauthorized access is subject to punishment by BUF as well as criminal charges, if warranted. Any faculty or staff member wishing to grant access to students after hours must notify the AVP of Operations and Development via email mfredryk@buf.edu.
Law Enforcement
Safety personnel will secure buildings and ensure the safety of the campus. Because Campus Safety is not a law enforcement agency, in the event of a crime, Campus Safety will contact local and state law enforcement.
Keeping the University Community Informed
At least once per calendar year, the AVP of Operations and Development will inform all students, faculty, and staff of security procedures and practices and to encourage students and employees to take responsibility for their own security and the security of others.
The AVP of Operations and Development will also provide information to the university community about the prevention of crimes.
Sexual misconduct and sexual crimes are addressed in the Student Handbook.
The possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and drug or alcohol abuse education programs are addressed in the Student Handbook.
University Hymn and Motto and Colors and Mission Statement
University Hymn
"Tell Me The Story of Jesus"
Words by Fannie Crosby, Tune by John Sweney
University Motto
"Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word.®"
University Colors
BUF Navy and BUF Gold
University Mascot
BUF Eagle - Izzy
BUF Mission Statement
Baptist University of Florida exists to serve Florida Baptists and the wider Christian community by providing premier Christian higher education and programs of study from a Christian worldview at the certificate, associate, baccalaureate, and graduate levels in a co-educational post-secondary setting. The mission is to educate and prepare Christian leaders for Kingdom service.
To fulfill its mission, the university seeks to develop those qualities in students that contribute to effective ministry. In the areas of personal growth, we seek to foster a desire for knowledge; develop cultural awareness by introducing students to a wide range of knowledge; nurture the ability to acquire, evaluate, assimilate, and use information; and promote personal and social maturity. For spiritual growth, we provide the resources for gaining biblical and religious data; we also assist students in learning and living the Christian life. In terms of professional growth, students are enabled to gain the credentials that enhance opportunities for ministry, and they learn to master a specialized body of knowledge. At the same time, we encourage positive attitudes toward ministry and foster both an awareness of and a loyalty to the Southern Baptist heritage.
Professional Licensure Disclosure Statement
Baptist University of Florida has one degree that leads to professional licensure: the Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. This degree leads to licensure in the State of Florida only. BUF cannot confirm whether this program will meet the requirements for teacher certification outside the State of Florida. Interested students should contact the appropriate licensure boards in their states prior to beginning this academic program to determine whether the program meets licensure requirements. More information on Licensure is found at About - Accreditation - Baptist University of Florida.