Honors Scholars Program

A Unique Experience

The Honors Scholars program at CSB+SJU transcends traditional models to create something truly extraordinary. Our students will become purposeful, value-driven leaders who strive to make a difference in the world. CSB+SJU Honors Scholars pride themselves on their shared love of learning and relish the intellectual challenge they receive within the supportive environment of the program. A unique feature of the program is the application of liberal arts learning to community-engaged projects with local non-profits.

Five young women stand outdoors on a sidewalk, smiling at the camera. They wear dresses and white shoes, with medals hanging around their necks. Trees line the background, and it's a sunny day.
A man in a white shirt speaks at a podium on stage with a microphone. A panel of seated individuals in formal attire are behind him, with a sign reading "College of Saint Benedict Saint John's University" on the podium.

A Well Rounded Curriculum

The coursework includes five Honors classes connected by the theme “community.” Through these interdisciplinary courses, you’ll learn how to apply concepts, methods, theories, and skills to complex social issues. The four-year program involves undergraduate research, experiential learning, and developing proposals and strategies for enhancing the community’s common good.

The final two courses are designed around a student-led research project developed with community partners, like the Stearns Historical Museum, the Great River Regional Library, the Boys and Girls Club, Ana Marie’s Alliance, and Habitat for Humanity.

An Award-Winning Honors Program

CSB and SJU’s Honors Scholars for Community and Collaborative Leadership has been supported by a Humanities Connections Grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

CSB and SJU Honors Scholars program received the 2022 Presidents’ Civic Engagement Leadership Award from Campus Compact of Iowa and Minnesota.

Logo for Campus Compact Iowa & Minnesota, featuring a stylized "C" made of white radial lines on a maroon background.
Scholars unite in a thorough brainstorming session, jotting down creative proposals on the whiteboard.

Contact Honors Scholars

Dr. Emily Esch
Co-Director, Honors Scholars
Professor of Philosophy
SJU Quad 362G
320-363-3288

Dr. Beth Wengler
Co-Director, Honors Scholars
Professor of History
CSB Richarda N7
320-363-5190