Public Democracy Scholars Program

The Public Democracy Scholars program is a signature initiative of the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy—making Drake the school of choice for politically minded high school students. The four-year program will prepare students to be civic leaders through dedicated coursework and immersive engagement. Students will receive a $5,000 scholarship per year for their participation. A $100,000 endowment will support one student’s scholarship over four years.

The Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy will recruit five students per year to participate in the program with a goal of having 20 scholarships overall.

Implementation of this program has allowed us to offer students:

Summer stipends, so scholars can pursue summer internships or research opportunities.

Travel support for scholars to participate in at least two travel seminars at no additional cost.

Post-graduate professional grants for continuing education, internships, or work in public democracy. Scholars who complete all program requirements are eligible to apply.

Institute for Public Democracy Scholarship