The Honors College focuses on nurturing informed citizens, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. Students collaborate with faculty mentors to develop individualized degree programs. Junior peer mentors guide first-year students. Seniors present capstone projects.
Gifts to the Honors College can directly benefit dedicated, deserving students. Support will expand scholarship offerings and alleviate financial burdens for travel to competitions, projects, and conferences. Another focus is developing professorships that will draw and retain leading faculty experts driven to elevate the national reach and reputation of our most influential programs.
Honors College Funds
Honors College Fund
Fund Purpose
Gifts made to the college directly benefit dedicated, deserving students engaged in stimulating, one-of-a-kind courses and research within our supportive community.
Examples
This fund supports students engaged in research and scholarship projects, funding their time, necessary supplies, and presentation of their results at professional meetings. The fund enables Honors College classes to pursue novel immersive learning experiences both locally and afield. The fund also supports Honors College scholarships for matriculating and continuing students.
Whitinger Scholars Fund
Fund Purpose
The Whitinger Scholarship is the signature scholarship of the Honors College and is the most prestigious scholarship awarded by Ball State University, honoring 8 exceptionally talented students each year. Since established in 1976, this scholarship is a critical recruitment tool, attracting many high potential students to consider and join Ball State University and its Honors College.
Examples
Gifts from Whitinger Scholar Alumni and other friends will strengthen the endowment so that the Whitinger Scholars program will continue to thrive.
Dr. James S. Ruebel Honors Fellowships for International and Innovative Experiences
Fund Purpose
Several Ruebel Fellowships are awarded annually to Honors College students who are poised to make an impact in either an international setting, in a local community, or both. A signature element of the Honors College under Dean Ruebel’s leadership was the expansion of study abroad and other innovative learning experiences.
Examples
This fund celebrates Dean Ruebel’s passion by empowering students to pursue innovative opportunities locally and internationally.
John R. and Aline B. Emens Leadership Scholarship Fund
Fund Purpose
The Emens Scholars Program, established in 1977, honors former Ball State University President John R. Emens and his wife, Aline B. Emens, for their many years of service. The commitment of President and Mrs. Emens to attract outstanding students to Ball State University, recognize student leadership, and develop students’ leadership potential continues today through the Emens Scholars Program.
Examples
Gifts from Emens Scholar Alumni and other friends will strengthen the endowment so that this program will continue to thrive.
Warren Vander Hill Honors College Student Opportunity Grant
Fund Purpose
To provide financial support for current Honors College students for innovative and experiential learning opportunities outside of the classroom.
Examples
Opportunities that may include but not limited to internships and undergraduate research support.
Give Online
Use our secure online giving portal to make a difference today. On the form, use the drop-down menu to select the account you'd like to support, then use your credit or debit card to make your gift.