Ward Family Learning In Action Award Doubled In 2015

Due to the continued generosity of the Ward family, the Ward Family Learning in Action Award has been increased from $5,000 to $10,000 and will be awarded every other year. 

Due to the continued generosity of the Ward family, the Ward Family Learning in Action Award has been increased from $5,000 to $10,000 and will be awarded every other year. This change will allow students to achieve excellence in their individual pursuits as they engage in a transformative, experiential learning project. The award may be used between June 1, 2015 and June 1, 2016. The application proposal for this award is due Feb. 24, 2015

2013 recipient, Amber Schmiesing, Dr. Smith Jackson and 2014 recipient, Colby Halligan
Ward Family Learning in Action Award

This award was established in 2007 through a gift from the Ward family – Dorothy Mears Ward – GP ’05, ’08 and ’14; Tom and Beth Ward – P ’05, ’08 and ’14; A.T. Ward ’05; Christopher Ward ’08; and Chase Ward ’14.  The award is given every other year to recognize one rising sophomore, junior or senior who wishes to engage in an experiential learning project that will be life-changing for them. Priority will be given to new and unique projects that will be transformative for the student. The project may include, but is not limited to:  international study, undergraduate research, internships, service, and leadership experiences.  Student recipients must be in good academic and social standing.  Demonstrated financial need is not a requirement but may be taken into account.

To Apply

Proposals will be judged on the following factors: creativity; originality; potential for academic or personal development; positive impact on others; relevance to course of study or career goals; and overall presentation of proposal.

Students must submit a proposal to the Office of the Vice President for Student Life, Alamance 109, by Tuesday, February 24, 2015. The proposal should describe the proposed project, explain its relevance to the student’s goals, make a compelling case for funding by providing a detailed budget, and list any other funding sources sought. Proposals should include two letters of support from Elon faculty or staff members with whom the student has discussed their project.  The top six candidates chosen by the selection committee will be invited to make a short presentation about their proposal in March. 

The award is presented annually at the spring Omicron Delta Kappa awards ceremony.  This year’s ceremony will be held April 30, 2015. 

Please contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, Alamance 109, or X7220 with any questions. 

Breakout of Criteria for Evaluating Applications

  • creativity & originality
  • personal development
  • positive impact on others
  • potential or academic growth or relevance to course of study
  • clarity of budget
  • overall presentation