Oral History Project
The history of SMU is diverse and complex, spanning well over 100 years since its origins in 1909. Our alumni include all graduates of the University, Samuel Merritt Hospital School of Nursing, Providence College of Nursing, and the California School of Podiatric Medicine—as well as our additional legacy organizations.
Our goal with the Oral History Project is to tell our story through the voices of our alumni. Lend your voice, and be a part of our shared story.
Are you an alum? Our Oral History Project team (coordinated by PCI/Publishing Concepts) wants to connect with you!
See our FAQ's below:
I received an email/postcard/phone call from a company asking for my personal information and a story about Samuel Merritt University. Tell me more about the project.
We have partnered with PCI (also known as Publishing Concepts) to produce an Oral History Publication for Samuel Merritt University. PCI is a family owned business based in Dallas, TX that has published directories for educational institutions, fraternities, sororities, and military organizations across the nation for over 100 years. This project allows us to hear about your personal experiences from your time at Samuel Merritt University and how the school helped to shape your life since then. And, while we have you on the phone, we want to make sure your contact information is up to date.
Does Samuel Merritt University benefit from this at all?
Yes, in a few different ways:
• Updated Information – allows us to effectively communicate with and engage alumni
• Legacy – sharing and collecting stories preserves the history of our school
• Revenue – generates non-dues revenue for alumni programs
• Pride – wearing apparel shows support and love for our school
Is there a video that describes the Oral History Project?
See a video description of the Oral History Project by clicking here.
I ordered a book / package over the phone and would like to cancel my order. How do I do this?
Contact PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 and they will take care of this for you.
I received an email or postcard that says it is from Samuel Merritt University. Is this really from the University?
Below are examples of emails and postcards you may have received in association with the Oral History Project. These are, in fact, approved communications from the University. Please respond and share!
How do I know my information will only be used for Oral History Project purposes?
PCI is committed to protecting your information. The names, addresses and information provided to PCI for the publication of the Oral History Project will be held confidential by PCI, except to the extent that they are utilized in, or in the preparation of, the Oral History Project and except as required by court order or law.
I would like to verify or update my information and share a story. How may I do this?
• If you have received a postcard or an email with a telephone number, you may call the number to speak with a dedicated representative for the Oral History Project. The representative will verify the information we have on file for you, make any updates where needed, and then ask you to share your story about your time at Samuel Merritt University. Your story will be recorded and the sound clip provided to Samuel Merritt University at the conclusion of the project.
• If you have received an email with an embedded link, you may go to the online site to review your information and submit a story.
• If you did not receive a postcard or email, you may call the dedicated Samuel Merritt University update line at 1-855-887-4066.
How can I participate if I am hearing or speech impaired?
If you would like to participate and are hearing or speech impaired, please email customerservice@publishingconcepts.com. PCI will send you a personalized link for you to share your written story and photo.
Can I choose what information prints in the publication?
The only information that is included in the publication is your name, class year and degree, along with your story and photo. No contact information is printed. When you call to update your contact information, it will only be used to update your alumni record for the school/alumni association. You may revoke consent for your story and/or photo to appear any time before 12/29/2023 by contacting PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 / customerservice@publishingconcepts.com.
I updated my information but need some more time to think about what experience to share.
You can call back at any time before 12/29/2023 to share your story.
I shared a story and the representative said I could send a photo. How do I do this?
You will receive an email with a link to upload one photo (black and white or color) plus a caption.
If you have also purchased a book but do not have an email address on file, you will be sent a photo mailer to send a physical photo in to be printed (note: the photo will be returned if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).
Can anyone purchase a book?
The Samuel Merritt University Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Samuel Merritt alumni.
How do I purchase a copy of the book?
Alumni who are interested in purchasing the book can contact 1-800-982-1590 for a copy of the digital publication. We are no longer able to take new reservations for the hardbound version.
When will I receive my book?
The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12 months. Since we began the project at the end of June of 2023, the books will be distributed in June/July of 2024.
Will the information I provide be protected?
Privacy Notice: Protecting your private information is our priority. Please refer to our webpage for our full Privacy Policy.
