Scholastic Connections

What We Do

Increasing the number of students from underserved populations who attain higher education is central to the mission of Augsburg College. Augsburg is committed to increasing access and supporting academic achievement for students of color and invests substantial resources in offering culturally-specific academic programming. The Scholastic Connections program, launched in 2001, is an important tool in achieving that goal.

Each year, five new student applicants are accepted into the program and join returning Scholastic Connections students. Applicants must be at second year standing or higher and have demonstrated involvement in community activities during their first year. In addition, the students must have leadership potential, a GPA of at least 2.5, documented financial need, and ability to benefit from a mentor. Each student receives a $5,000 scholarship that is renewable annually upon satisfactory participation in the program.

A unique aspect of the Scholastic Connections program is its emphasis on mentoring by alumni of color, who focus much of their activities on career development and planning. Each student is paired with an alumni mentor who works in local Twin Cities corporations, nonprofit agencies, or educational organizations. These mentoring relationships provide a supportive network for the students as they pursue their degrees and enter into the work world. Throughout the year, students and mentors participate in large- and small-group educational and social programs that build self-awareness, appreciation of one’s own culture as well as an awareness of other cultures and traditions. In addition, mentors provide valuable insight into the transition from college to careers.

The Scholastic Connections program is very successful in helping students of color succeed in college. Since 2004, 31 students have participated in Scholastic Connections. Of these, 20 students have graduated and 8 are still in college and participating in the program. This graduation and persistence rate of 90% is substantially higher than the rates for students of color in the state of Minnesota and the nation as a whole. In 2008-2009, two Scholastic Connections students were American Indian; three were Hispanic/Latino; three were Pan-Afrikan; and three were Pan-Asian.