CSB and SJU classes of 2024 were the first to navigate four years of our new Integrations Curriculum. Not coincidentally, this class also marked the first cohort of scholars to run the full course of our revamped Honors program.
Coursework in the program includes a set of five Honors classes connected by the theme “community.” It involves undergraduate research, experiential learning and developing proposals and strategies for enhancing the common good of the community.
“From past experience, we know our Honors Scholars will become leaders in their communities,” explains Beth Wengler, Ph.D., director of the Honors Scholars program. “We want to prepare them on how to make positive change, whether that is in their career, in their church or place of worship, or their volunteer work.”
“The program’s curriculum is intentional in developing students’ awareness of how to use their liberal arts learning,” adds Emily Esch, Ph.D., associate director of the Honors Scholars program.
“Part of what we’re teaching is not only why the liberal arts matters, but why it matters that you as a community member can take your skills and act as a leader in your community – helping toward the common good,” explains Emily Paup, Ph.D., associate professor of strategic communication studies and Honors Faculty Fellow.