What is the Multicultural Scholars Program?
The Multicultural Scholars Program (MSP) is a community originally developed on the KU Lawrence campus in 1992 to provide academic, social, and personal support for students from “disadvantaged” backgrounds. The Lawrence program currently has approximately over 120 students and represents nine schools, including architecture, business, education, humanities, journalism, natural science/mathematics, pharmacy, social science, and social work. Participants in MSP demonstrate higher grade point averages and graduation rates compared to their first-time, full-time KU freshmen peers.
Why is it needed on the Medical Center campus?
As a community of healthcare professionals, we recognize the need for a diverse workforce. MSP will provide support to disadvantaged and minority students for successful application to Allied Health and Nursing programs. The long-term objective is an increased number of applicants and graduates from diverse populations.
Which schools will sponsor the program?
The Schools of Allied Health (SAH) and Nursing (SON) will sponsor the program on the Medical Center campus. SAH will support one student initially and the SON will support one student. The program began with two students in 2009.
Who is eligible to apply?
First generation college students, students with high financial need, and African-, Asian-, Hispanic-American and First Nation students who have successfully completed 12-36 college credits can apply for the program. Eligible students will be identified from the KU Lawrence campus with interests in clinical laboratory science, cytotechnology, respiratory care, health information management, occupational therapy, or nursing.
What does high financial need mean?
Students eligible for federal Pell grants are classified as having high financial need.
Who selects the students?
The Diversity Committee (SAH) and the Diversity Advisory Council (SON) appoint members to a taskforce responsible for criteria development and student selection.
Does participation in the program guarantee admission into allied health and nursing programs?
No, participation in the MSP does not guarantee admission into allied health and nursing programs.
What do students receive?
Students receive mentoring and financial support. Students also receive scholarships of $500/semester for fall and spring semesters. However, pell grant-eligible students receive $750/semester. Scholarships will continue until graduation, as long as program requirements are met.
Where is the funding coming from?
Unrestricted funds from both schools provides the initial funding for the program. However, the long-term goal is the establishment of an endowment fund.
What are the student requirements of the program?
Students must apply with following requirements as outlined by the Lawrence program:
- Full class attendance
- Full attendance at group meetings
- Preparation for all meetings with faculty director
- Commitment to academic discipline
- Maintenance of a minimum GPA as required by each respective program
What are the group meetings?
Group meetings are held four times a semester on the Lawrence campus. Group meeting will address financial aid, cultural competency, networking, and program progress reports. Students and directors are expected to attend the group meetings.
What are the faculty requirements of the program?
Tentatively, we hope current advisors from each program will serve as mentors for the students. However, additional faculty may be needed for advising and group meetings.
What is the structure of the program?
Co-Directors will be selected from each school. The Co-Directors will be responsible for program operations and will report directly to the Office of the Dean. Criteria and responsibilities for Co-Directors are currently under development.
What can I do to help?
If you are interested in serving on the taskforce, advising, or director opportunities, please email Ken Davis (kdavis@kumc.edu), Debbie Ford (dford@kumc.edu) or Lisa VanHoose (lvanhoose@kumc.edu) regarding your interest.
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