The Progressive Scholars Program is designed to recruit and retain talented and passionate urban and underrepresented students who possess leadership roles in their schools, jobs and communities. This scholarship program provides student leaders the possibility to attend Colby-Sawyer, while these students help to increase the diversity of perspectives on campus.
Colby-Sawyer College believes it is essential for a student body to be diverse racially, ethnically, culturally, internationally, regionally and socio-economically so that our community may benefit from the engaged dialogue and dynamic energy that multiple perspectives offers.
The first Progressive Scholars Class began their studies in the fall of 2008. Currently, there are 45 students enrolled in the program. Students are from the greater Boston area, Oakland, California, New York City, and Chicago. In fall 2011, we are expecting another 10 - 15 Progressive Scholars to join us as first year students, and we will have our first graduating class from within the program.
Program Requirements
Progressive Scholar recipients receive a full tuition scholarship/stipend for four full years in accordance with the terms of the scholarship. These terms include:
• Maintain a 2.7 (B-) GPA
• Fulfill at least one leadership role on campus
• Maintain good citizenship on campus, which includes academic honesty and social behavior as a member of our community.
• Provide annual reflective report on development as a leader and engagement on campus.
Additional expectations include:
• Regular attendance at Progressive Scholar meetings
• Attendance at leadership workshops and events
As a Progressive Scholar, students are expected to be role models and leaders on campus. There are many formal opportunities for leadership through the program itself, student government, student clubs, or athletic teams. There are also opportunities for students to organize events on campus, or become a peer tutor, orientation leader, or resident hall assistant.
Orientation Program
New Progressive Scholars are invited and required to attend a special orientation program that occurs a few days prior to the main orientation program for new students. This special program is full of outings, activities and mentoring that gives the students an opportunity for bonding as a group, building a sense of support community, and getting acclimated to our campus and college environment before the busy fall semester begins.
For more information about the program content and structure:
Pamela Serota Cote
Associate Dean of International
and Diversity Programs
603-526-3750
For more information on admission selection or to recommend students:
Jennifer Smith
Senior Associate Director of Admissions
and Director of International and Diversity Recruitment
1.800.272.1015
Fax 603.526.3452
