Story By: Evett Nichols
MONTEVALLO, Ala. — The University of Montevallo is home to over 90 student organizations. From footwear preferences to religious ministries, students can find a place to connect. However, moms of the Baptist Campus Ministries bring the connection to the students. “Just to be an encouragement to the students. To be here on a consistent basis, just offering cookies or brownies, or a hug.” Monica Walker, the co-founder of Ask Mom, said.
“Just to be an encouragement to the students. To be here on a consistent basis, just offering cookies or brownies, or a hug.”
Monica Walker
Ask Mom happens every Thursday morning through the school year. Moms from the BCM gather outside of Famer Hall to offer students home baked goods and a chance to talk and connect. Each woman sharing friendly smiles and laughter no matter the weather. Students are encouraged to ask the moms any questions, ranging from laundry to general life advice.
“If they have a question, any kind of mom question, about cooking, about laundry, about relationships, about anything, they can ask us that question,” says Monica Walker, one of the founding members of Ask Mom. “Not to say that we will have all the answers, but if we do have an answer, we will give it to them honestly. And just let them know we’re here as moms on campus, just here to encourage and love on them.
Ask Mom began two years ago with Monica Walker and Karla Birdsong. Karla learned about Ask Mom when visiting the BCM at the University of South Carolina. “I saw a group of women handing out cookies,” she said.” So I went over to their table and just talked to them about what they were doing.” Karla explained further, and after discussing it with UM’s B.C.M. leader, decided to bring the program to the UM Campus.
Karla also spoke on their care for the students and acting as Jesus would is what inspires her and fellow moms to come back every week. “Our love of the students keeps us doing it. We want to be a shining light for Christ on this campus, and if we can do that with a smile and a cookie and a little dog, then that’s what we want to do.”
“Our love of the students keeps us doing it. We want to be a shining light for Christ on this campus, and if we can do that with a smile and a cookie and a little dog, then that’s what we want to do.”
Karla Birdsong
Along with the baked goods, students are greeted by a particularly friendly and furry face: Kooper the Shetland Sheepdog. Kooper is usually in attendance with his owner, Karla, and is always eager to meet new faces and sit for pets. His favorite way to interact with students is to play fetch. “I love them, they are all so sweet and all the interactions are genuine.” Katlyn, a UM student said.
“We just want to be that mom as students are away from their moms, that we can be here for y’all.” Karla said.
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