Saint Joseph's University McConnell Scholarship
Saint Joseph's University’s McConnell Scholars Program is a four-year co-curricular scholarship that focuses on building leadership skills for students interested in issues of gender justice and advancing gender equity. The program honors Saint Joseph’s first woman president, Cheryl A. McConnell, PhD.
Apply for the McConnell Scholarship
Benefits
McConnell Scholars students receive mentorship from faculty and staff throughout their time in the program. Additionally, Cura Collective serves as the headquarters of McConnell Scholars, giving students their own space to study, socialize and support gender equity initiatives sponsored by the Collective.
Benefits include:
- $35,000 annual scholarship
- Priority registration
- Advance your knowledge through coursework and mentorship, including a seminar taught by the McConnell Scholars Program Director
- Develop confidence and leadership skills through a cohorted learning community while living in the new Sister Thea Bowman Residence Hall
- Engage in research, workshops and events that contribute to gender justice and equity initiatives
- Opportunities to participate in the Summer Scholars Program and other faculty-mentored projects
- Build, practice and apply Career Readiness Competencies that employers seek in a strong intern/job candidate
Responsibilities and Requirements
McConnell Scholars students are required to:
- Live in Sister Thea Bowman Residence Hall during their first year as a cohorted learning community.
- Complete six Program-approved courses to earn the McConnell Scholars designation upon graduation: four academic classes; one experiential learning opportunity; and one service-learning course. Scholars need to take a minimum of one Program-approved course every year.
- Actively participate in workshops and meetings related to the Program, including attending monthly meetings and occasional events.
- To continue as a McConnell Scholar, students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
Selection Process
- Applicants should have a minimum 3.3 cumulative high school grade point average on a 4.0 scale
- Application deadline is Feb. 15
- Applicants must have already applied to Saint Joseph's University main campus for admission. Application includes a short essay demonstrating a commitment to gender justice and equity through an intersectional lens.
- Program is competitive and accepts students with a demonstrated commitment to building inclusive leadership skills through the lens of advancing gender justice and equity
- The selection process is handled by McConnell Scholars Program directors
Saint Joseph’s Unveils McConnell Scholars Program
The four year co-curricular program honors President Cheryl A. McConnell, PhD, and focuses on advancing gender equity.
Programs
About Dr. McConnell
Cura Collective
Cura Collective
The Cura Collectiveserves as a hub for social justice leadership in gender equity, identity, and activism.
Center for Inclusion and Diversity
Center for Inclusion and Diversity
The Center strives to develop the student's ability to become agents of social change through advocacy, mentoring, individual and organizational advising and leadership development.