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Schmitt Scholars Program

The Schmitt Scholars Program promotes the development of promising Saint Xavier University student leaders, helping participants advance their leadership efforts at SXU and preparing them to make a broader impact on the world after graduation. Schmitt Scholars receive a merit-based scholarship and participate in a program of activities that provide them with opportunities to reflect on and develop their leadership potential.

The program is supported by the Arthur J. Schmitt Foundation, which dedicates its resources to fashioning a better and more humane world. Arthur J. Schmitt was a successful entrepreneur, engineer and inventor who was committed to the education of educated, ethical and spiritually reflective leaders. His legacy has supported generations of Schmitt Scholars at selected colleges and universities throughout the Midwest.

Each year, students who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and strong academic performance are invited to nominate themselves as a Schmitt Scholar. For additional information on the Schmitt Scholars Program, please contact the program's co-leads Dr. Gina Rossetti (rossettiFREESXU), Dr. Manal Kanaan (kanaanFREESXU), and or Tatiana Alaraj (alarajFREESXU).

Schmitt Scholars FAQ

Our criteria for selecting Schmitt Scholars focuses on students' 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. Students invited to apply for the program must be full-time undergraduate, degree-seeking students with sophomore standing or higher. Students in any major are eligible for the program.

By participating in the Schmitt Scholar program, students will be expected to:

  • Attend a variety of workshops aimed to enhance leadership skills across communication, conflict management, and project management.
  • Acquire and read the Arthur J. Schmitt book (provided for Scholars)
  • Complete the CliftonStrengths and 16 Personalities assessments and attend the hosted workshop to further understand and explore one's leadership identity.
  • Develop a leadership philosophy statement using provided guidelines and Arthur J. Schmitt reading and integrate information learned from assessments.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of a group project.
  • Attend the Synergy Leadership Summit and present one educational leadership session at the Synergy Leadership Summit on Saturday, October 28, 2023 from 8 a.m. to noon.
  • Participate in the Cougars LEAD Leadership Certificate and serve as an ambassador of the program by educating others about the importance of leadership development.
  • Create or enhance a LinkedIn account and connect with a minimum of 25 individuals including current Schmitt Scholars and co-leaders.
  • Attend the End of Year Symposium (mandatory) and briefly share your leadership philosophy statement with Schmitt Scholars Leadership as well as contribute to the presentation of your group's leadership project.

Ready to Become a Leader?

We ask that each student applies to the program, where you have a chance to earn a scholarship. Applications will close on April 5, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Check out the Schmitt Scholar Leaders Program in the Scholarship Directory and apply today!