History of the Capstone Scholars

History
Mission Statement
Goals

History:
Originally outlined in the Report of the Strategic Directives and Initiatives Committee in 2002, the Capstone Scholars Program was created through the leadership of University President, Andrew Sorensen, and the Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice Provost for Academic Support, Dennis Pruitt, in the summer of 2004.   The Capstone Scholars Program was developed to provide a unique and engaging learning experience for high-achieving students at the University of South Carolina. Originally envisioned as a community of 300 – 350 students, the program was received with great enthusiasm and welcomed approximately 500 students in its inaugural class in the fall of 2005.   Since its inception, the Capstone Scholars Program, a two-year program, has recruited well over 500 students each fall semester who represent over 50 different academic majors and over 35 different home states.

Capstone Scholars represents a dynamic partnership between academic and student affairs units at the University of South Carolina. Ten offices throughout the Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support have partnered with the Capstone Scholars Program to make the Capstone Scholars a powerful two-year living and learning community. The partnering offices include: Undergraduate Admissions, the Office of Pre-Professional Advising, the Career Center, the Office of Undergraduate Research, Fellowships and Scholar Programs, University 101, The Office of International Programs, Orientation and Testing, The Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, and University Housing.  

Mission Statement:
The Capstone Scholars Program, through partnerships with campus and community constituents, recruits high achieving students to the University and enhances their development both in and outside of the classroom, thus preparing them for a life of learning, service, and engagement. The Program supports the mission of the University of South Carolina and is guided by its dedication to learning, commitment to diversity and devotion to the values of the Carolinian Creed.

Goals
The Capstone Scholars Program will:

• Recruit and retain outstanding high school students from across the nation.
• Provide a supportive environment that helps the students’ transition to the University through a common living experience, social activities, and personal attention from staff and faculty.
• Create a variety of outside of the classroom education enrichment opportunities lead by faculty, staff, and students which fosters a culture of inquiry.
• Offer special courses such as Capstone Scholars sections of University 101, University 290, and English 101 and 102, Emerging Leaders, and Discover.
• Provide a foundation for students before they enter their third year of the University which encourages a stronger sense of self and academic competency through undergraduate research, study abroad, civic engagement, and leadership opportunities.
• Recognize students’ achievements within the Capstone Scholars Program and throughout the University.

More information can be found by viewing our Frequently Asked Questions page.