Benton Scholars

Empowering creative and independent thinkers to do great things.

51�� the Program

Benton Scholars are students who exemplify the highest levels of intellectual creativity and independence. Selected in their first years, Scholars take a dedicated course together in the spring semester, receive funding to pursue creative projects or research in the summer, and work together in the fall to share the outcomes of their intellectual journeys. Throughout their years at 51��, they take part in building a community that celebrates vibrant intellectualism.

Project Grant

Benton Scholars of all class years may apply for mini-grants to fund the exploration of topics of academic interest outside the classroom. This may include funding applied toward academic travel and undergraduate research projects.

$3000

One-time grants of up to $3000 are available to Benton Scholars to undertake projects designed
to advance their intellectual, pre-professional, or creative goals. In addition, mini-grants of up
to $500 can offset the costs of travel to accomplish those projects.

To apply, contact the faculty director. Applicants will need to describe their
proposed project and its goals, show how they help advance the Scholars’ larger objectives,
demonstrate that they will have the tools to succeed, and explain how they will share their
findings with the campus community.