Albion to Offer Prestigious New National Scholarship in History

In partnership with two leading organizations championing the study of history, Albion joins eight other colleges—and is the only Midwest institution—offering a four-year $5,000 award to students declaring history as their major at the time of admission.

November 13, 2020

Albion College is partnering with the National Academy of American History and Civics (NAAHC) and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History to offer what can be considered a historic scholarship.

Albion is one of only nine colleges nationally, and the only one in Michigan and the Midwest, to participate in the national Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History Scholarship, offering a $5,000 award each year for four years to students who declare history as their major at the time of admission and continue with that major. The first scholarships will be awarded to new students enrolling in the Fall 2021 semester.

“The History Department is excited to bring in these students to our major from the start of their Albion career,” said Dr. Deborah Kanter, professor of history who holds the John S. Ludington Endowed Professorship and serves as chair of the department. “This will bring us students who have never thought about attending Albion and it puts us in touch with a much wider pool of students who have a passion for history. The new scholarship encourages talented young people to major in history.”

The NAAHC will provide a list of high school students with a demonstrated interest in history to Albion and the other participating colleges, and students will have the option to further that experience. Kanter said the scholarship will be offered to four students the first year and could expand in the ensuing years.

“This is yet another wonderful opportunity for students seeking the breadth and scope of a liberal arts college experience,” said Dr. Hernan Bucheli, vice president for enrollment management and strategic initiatives. “The Gilder Lehrman Institute Scholarship is just the spark many new students coming to Albion are looking for to begin, continue and complete their college journey studying history, and Albion is proud to be a part of it.”

The New York City-based Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History was founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, lifelong supporters of American history education. The Institute is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K-12 history education while also serving the general public. Its mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.

For more information on how to apply for the scholarship, contact Albion College’s Office of Admission at [email protected] or call 800-858-6770.