General Information

  • Eligibility:
    • Faculty member or staff with faculty rank who is on a long-term contract with the university and second year students who meet the eligibility requirements
  • Categories Supported: Scholar-Mentor
  • Application Deadline: Wednesday prior to Spring Break

Purpose

The Lumen Prize assists Elon University students in the attainment of ambitious and serious intellectual goals during their junior and senior years. The $20,000 award may be used for scholarship assistance, research assistance, international study, equipment and supplies, summer stipends, and other approved expenses. Winners of the Lumen Prize receive special mentoring and support in pursuit of graduate fellowships and international awards such as the Rhodes, Truman, Goldwater, and Rotary scholarships. The work of Lumen Prize winners will be publicly celebrated as representing the very best achievements of Elon University undergraduates. Students planning on attending graduate or professional school are strongly encouraged to apply.

Prize Description

The program’s website (www.elon.edu/lumenprize) provides information about the program’s history and mission, basic eligibility requirements, and the core selection criteria. You are strongly encouraged to review them as you contemplate agreeing to mentor an applicant over the course of his or her junior and senior years. This document is intended to provide you additional information about your role – the expectations we have for Lumen mentors and the policies concerning compensation for your work.

Given that the selection criteria reflect significant expectations for prize recipients, the role of high quality mentoring is essential. Young people even of this caliber need close and active mentoring throughout the process. Mentors (1) provide guidance as the applicant develops the proposal, (2) provide guidance and support as the recipient engages in the proposed program of study, (3) consult with the recipient about possible new directions for inquiry as the work unfolds, and (4) engage the scholar in ongoing reflection about the intellectual/creative process.

How to Apply

Sponsoring Center or Office

Lumen Prize
Visit Lumen Prize Website