About Scholars Programs

Our office hosts four Scholars Programs, each designed to support and foster the academic and personal growth of Dartmouth undergraduate students. Beginning in 2014, we partnered with the national Stamps Scholars Program to recognize Dartmouth students who demonstrate academic merit, strong leadership potential, and exceptional character. Stamps Scholars are provided experiential learning funds to support a two year research project. Building on the success of Stamps, we launched three distinctive programs in 2024 that provide experiential learning grants to support student research projects and academic exploration.

• The Stamps Scholars Program is a two-year initiative that offers resources for Dartmouth undergraduates to engage in active learning activities, complementing their coursework. Scholars propose a two-year plan focused on one or more academic disciplines, working closely with a faculty mentor.
• The Hanlon Scholars Program, honoring President Philip J. Hanlon, supports 24 students dedicated to driving positive societal change with creativity and resourcefulness. The program empowers scholars to explore and develop their ideas for impactful initiatives.
• The Coulter Scholars Program, part of Dartmouth's STEM initiative, supports 16 undergraduates in STEM. Funded by a $25 million donation from Penny and Jim Coulter '82, the program aims to increase STEM participation and leadership.
• The Gerstner Scholars Program, launched in 2020 and renewed in 2024 with a $6 million gift, supports 18 first generation college students pursuing STEM fields. The program, created by former IBM CEO Louis Gerstner '63 H'13, aims to address economic inequality in higher education.

The Scholars Programs community at Dartmouth fosters a collaborative and dynamic environment where students from all four programs can connect, share experiences, and grow together. We keep scholars engaged with a weekly newsletter that highlights key updates and spotlights the achievements of community members. We arrange group meals for each cohort to come together, share updates on both personal and academic endeavors, and strengthen their connections. Scholars also have the opportunity to organize social or academic events, allowing them to present their work to the broader community.

Additionally, we host educational panels and information sessions with alumni to showcase the ongoing work of the scholars community. We encourage cross-cohort engagement, ensuring that all scholars have opportunities to interact and learn from one another through various gatherings. This vibrant, supportive network enriches the Dartmouth experience and nurtures the personal and professional growth of our scholars.

The Peer Mentor Program pairs junior and senior scholars from all four Dartmouth Scholars Programs with first and second-year scholars, fostering a supportive community for academic growth. We carefully match students based on their academic disciplines, fields of study, or research interests to ensure meaningful connections. Through regular meetings, mentees gain valuable guidance as they develop their ideas and prepare to use their experiential learning funds for projects that will enhance their Dartmouth experience. These sessions provide an opportunity for students to share insights, build relationships, and collaborate on shaping their academic journeys.

Schedule an Appointment:

• Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education for Fellowships and Scholars Programs: Christie Harner 
• Assistant Director for Fellowships and Scholars Programs: Leslie R. Wagner-Ould Ismail
• Scholars Programs Coordinator: Alexis Jablonski