The Robert L. Lewis Academy of Scholars is an experience designed for ambitious students with a passion for social justice who want to make a difference in their communities and in the world.

This program requires a commitment of a complete academic year and is divided into Fall Semester and Spring Semester components.

Fall Semester:  You will study the history and philosophy of social justice through successful completion of the PHIL-208H Honors Social Justice course, offered on Fridays 11am-1pm at the Eastern, Metropolitan and Western campuses (you will choose which campus to attend).  As a Scholar in the Academy, you will also attend three mandatory meetings during the Fall semester, held immediately following your Friday class session.  With the support of faculty and community experts, you will prepare and present a proposal for your project that addresses a personal interest to "change the world."

Spring Semester: While earning Independent Study credits, you will work one-on-one with your community mentor and independent study faculty to produce your project.  You will also meet once a month with your fellow Academy Scholars in stimulating gatherings to share the creative experience.

In early May, the Academy of Scholars concludes with a showcase of the projects at the Tri-C Student Success Symposium.  You will be presented a certificate and recognized as a Robert L. Lewis Scholar at the awards portion of the Symposium.

Students will benefit from:

• Networking with community leaders
• Participating in 2000-level courses and independent study experiences
• Honing community leadership skills for resume-building and college transfer
• Exploring interests in Social Justice while making a difference in your community
• Benefiting from potential scholarship and project funding

How to Apply
Click on the link below to download and print out the application packet.  

                                            13-14 Academy of Scholars Application.pdf

To be considered for admission into the Academy, submit the application along with a letter of recommendation from a faculty or community member.  Students are accepted into the program each summer to begin the two-semester experience in the fall.

Students are expected to be self-motivated and inspired to explore social justice topics. A 3.5 GPA is required. Both courses in the Academy program are 2000-level offerings. If you are ineligible for financial assistance through the FAFSA or other financial assistance programs, you may be eligible for scholarship funds for the courses in the Robert L. Lewis Academy of Scholars program.