Introducing the St. John’s Jesuit
Distinguished Scholars Program
SJJ Students with Nobel Prize Winner for Chemistry Dr. Eric Betzig, PhD.
For 450 years Jesuit Education has encouraged each student to be more, to do more, to reach his greatest potential. A hallmark of the Jesuit approach is the commitment to presenting programs that move each individual student to grow academically to his highest level. The new Distinguished Scholars Program provides students who love learning and seek additional challenge a sequential, four-year class of advanced study and cultural enrichment culminating in a college level Senior Capstone Project.
What Are the Key Elements of the Distinguished Scholars Program?
Engaging Curriculum Develops Highly Capable Critical Thinkers and Communicators
In addition to a student’s rigorous academic curriculum, he will engage in one exclusive course offered each year to Distinguished Scholars. Over their four years, Distinguished Scholars will explore great ideas in world history, philosophy, science, and the humanities. Scholars will heighten their presentation skills and analytical composition skills. This carefully chosen, integrated curriculum will challenge Distinguished Scholars to even deeper critical thinking, analysis, and problem solving.
Cultural Enrichment Fosters Holistic Development
Enrichment outside the classroom will expand the Distinguished Scholars’ exposure to cultural and intellectual opportunities. Activities will embrace exposure to the Fine Arts, lectures by national and regional leaders, important social issues, and unparalleled access to our worldwide Jesuit Network. Examples could include:
- Romeo et Juliette, Toledo Opera
- Steve Wozniak, University of Toledo Distinguished Lecture Series,
- Dr. Eric Betzig, (Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2014), University of Michigan Lectures
- The Impressionist Gardens exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art
- The Toledo public library’s Authors, Authors series
Senior Capstone Project Applies Distinguished Scholars Learning to Real World Issues
During their senior year Distinguished Scholars will focus on an expansive and personal Capstone Project that will be presented to the community. Scholars will work closely with local businesses and/or institutions in this process. Scholars will put into practice the knowledge and abilities developed through the Distinguished Scholars Program to address an important academic, research, public policy, or societal issue. Distinguished Scholars will gain valuable research experience throughout the process and defend their final product in a college-level, thesis-style presentation to a panel.
| SSJ Students attend a Community Leaders Forum on campus |
What Will Distinguished Scholars Gain during their Four Years in the Program?
- Maximum personal growth through an expansive, challenging curriculum
- Highly developed critical thinking and communication skills
- Mentorship and guidance from a dedicated Program Director
- Experience with college-style seminars, research, and thesis-based presentations
- Broad cultural exposure in the Toledo area and beyond
- Involvement with businesses and institutions through the Capstone project
- Support of a peer structure committed to similar interests and ambitions
- Guaranteed participation in a “High Achievement” college counseling night
- Recognition of being a Distinguished Scholar at graduation
How Will Distinguished Scholars Be Selected?
Admission into the program involves consideration of the following criteria:
- Love of learning and strong motivation for intellectual and personal growth
- High performance on the High School Placement Test
- Strong Academic Portfolio
- Interview Process with Distinguished Scholars Committee
