The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a prestigious graduate-level scholarship at Stanford University. Launched in 2016, the program aims to develop a multidisciplinary community of future global leaders to address complex challenges through collaboration and innovation. Named after Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and John Hennessy, former president of Stanford University, the program seeks to attract top-tier talent from around the world.
Program Overview
Objectives
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is designed to:
- Develop leadership skills.
- Foster an interdisciplinary community of scholars.
- Encourage innovative solutions to global challenges.
Components
- Funding: The scholarship covers tuition, stipends, graduate program, and related academic expenses.
- Community: Scholars join a diverse and inclusive cohort, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
- Leadership Development: The program offers leadership training, workshops, and opportunities to engage with influential leaders and mentors.
- Interdisciplinary Learning: Scholars participate in multidisciplinary activities, including retreats, speaker series, and projects addressing real-world problems.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Apply within four years of earning their first/bachelor’s degree.
- Be applying to enroll in a full-time graduate degree program at Stanford or be a current Stanford graduate student planning to pursue an additional full-time degree.
- Meet the specific criteria of the Stanford graduate program they wish to pursue.
Selection Criteria
The selection process evaluates candidates on three main criteria:
- Independence of Thought: Demonstrated through creativity, originality, and a history of taking initiative.
- Purposeful Leadership: Evidence of leadership potential, ambition, and a track record of influencing and motivating others.
- Civic Mindset: Commitment to improving the lives of others and having a positive impact on society.
Application Process
Steps
- Prepare Application: Gather transcripts, test scores, resume, essays, and recommendation letters.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit the Knight-Hennessy Scholars application online.
- Apply to Stanford: Submit a separate application to the specific Stanford graduate program you wish to join.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in Immersion Weekend at Stanford for interviews and further evaluation.
Timeline
- Spring-Summer: Application opens.
- Autumn: Application deadline.
- Winter: Selection of finalists and interviews.
- Spring: Notification of scholarship recipients.
Benefits of the Program
Financial Support
- Full funding for the duration of the scholar’s graduate studies.
- Stipend for living and academic expenses.
- Additional funding for academic and professional development opportunities.
Leadership Development
- Custom leadership training.
- Access to workshops, coaching, and mentorship.
- Opportunities to engage with prominent leaders and thinkers.
- Interdisciplinary Community
- Collaborative projects across disciplines.
- Participation in community-building activities.
- Exposure to a network of scholars, alumni, and faculty.
Alumni and Impact
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program has produced a growing network of alumni who are making significant contributions across various fields. These scholars work in diverse sectors, including academia, industry, government, and non-profits, leveraging their skills and knowledge to drive positive change globally.
Conclusion
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University offers an unparalleled opportunity for exceptional students to develop as leaders and innovators. Through comprehensive support, leadership training, and an interdisciplinary community, the program empowers scholars to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges and make a lasting impact.
