Schmitt Scholar Leaders Program

The Schmitt Scholar Leaders Program promotes the development of promising student leaders. Each Schmitt Scholar Leader receives a scholarship and participates in a year-long program of education and activities that helps participants advance their leadership efforts at Saint Xavier and prepares them to make a broader impact on the world after graduation. Participation in the program is renewable for up to three additional years, based on the successful fulfillment of program expectations.

The program is supported by a generous grant from the Arthur J. Schmitt Foundation. Arthur Schmitt was a successful entrepreneur, engineer and inventor who was committed to fostering leadership in young people. His legacy has supported generations of Schmitt Scholar Leaders at select Midwest colleges and universities.

The Schmitt Scholar Leaders Program includes a series of activities and reflections designed to advance and assess student leadership skills; promote the development of values-based leadership inspired by the mission of Saint Xavier and the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy; foster career development; facilitate service on campus and in the community; and motivate students to make an impact on the broader world after graduation by preparing them for future leadership roles in their professions and communities.

Information about program requirements can be found on the Schmitt Scholars Program webpage.

Eligibility Criteria

Our criteria for selecting Schmitt Scholar Leaders focuses on student leadership potential and academic achievement. Applicants are required to demonstrate a record of academic excellence with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better; active involvement in student organizations, extracurricular academic projects, and other University-sponsored and community-based programs; and evidence of the ability to assume a leadership role on campus and beyond.

Schmitt Scholars must be full-time undergraduate, degree-seeking students with sophomore, junior or senior standing. Students in any major are eligible for the program. Applicants must be willing to participate in a year-long program of activities as part of the Schmitt Scholar Leaders Program.

Students planning to attend SXU for only one additional semester (i.e., fall only) will not be eligible.

Selection Process

The applications are reviewed by a selection committee comprised of faculty and staff. Applications are reviewed based on scholastic performance and demonstrated ability to assume a leadership role on campus. Nominees may also be asked to attend an in-person meeting or telephone call with the selection committee to assess the nominee's level of interest in and commitment to the program. All applicants will be notified of a decision by the end of April.

Please Note

If selected, the information presented in this application will be shared with the Arthur J. Schmitt Foundation and used to develop publicity materials for the program. Saint Xavier University reserves the right to make changes in eligibility criteria or terms of awards for scholarships, assistantships or any other financial aid programs.

Application

The online application form is now closed.

Contacts

If you have any questions, please contact the program lead Dr. Natalie Page (npage@sxu.edu).