Close Scholars Program
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."
Established in 1998 with generous gifts from the Springs Close Foundation, the Close
Scholars Program supports the commitment of the Springs Close Foundation to give back
to the communities of York, Lancaster, and Chester counties, as well as Winthrop's
vision of enrolling "an achievement-oriented, culturally diverse and socially responsible
student body." The idea that drives the Close Scholars Program is that service is
vital to the complete education of college students because future leaders have a
civic responsibility. Through the establishment of the Close Scholars Program, the
Springs Close Foundation, together with Winthrop University, enables talented and
committed students to develop the social consciousness and inner strength that comes
from helping others, as well as a legacy with a rich yield to the greater community.
Applications for the 2024-2025 Academic Term will open in February 2024 and will be
accessible here! If you or someone you know is interested please consider applying.
Application Timeline Process:
- Deadline for Applications
- Review of Applications
- E-mails Sent to Selected Candidates for Interviews
- Interviews
- Selected Finalists/New Close Scholars Notified by E-mail
The benefits of being chosen as a Close Scholar are numerous and include:
- The fulfillment of four years of college with the financial assistance of the Springs
Close Foundation
- The opportunity to serve the community
- The opportunity to gain leadership skills through participation in service and enrichment
activities
- The freedom and creativity to explore new service opportunities
- Support from the program coordinator and other Close Scholars
Close Scholars must fulfill the following requirements:
- Attend in-service activities planned at least once a month by the program coordinator
- Follow all policies of the university
- Maintain a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA throughout all semesters
- Volunteer 112 hours per semester in one or more pre-approved service sites
- Applicants must be a South Carolina resident
