Wittlinger Scholarships
for Anabaptist, Pietist, and Wesleyan Research
The Wittlinger Scholarship Program is designed to provide opportunities for students to do independent research in an area relating to either one of the three theological traditions (Anabaptist, Pietist and Wesleyan) of Messiah College’s foundation or a study on an aspect of Brethren in Christ history and life. In order to encourage original research, the area of study must be independent of other coursework. There will be a maximum of three scholarships awarded per year. Successful Wittlinger Scholars will register for an independent study with a full time Messiah faculty member. This study will be conducted during the fall of their senior year and will result in a major research paper, minimally 25 pages, and a public presentation regarding their research. Upon the completion of the independent study and presentation each scholar will receive a scholarship of $2,000. This research program carries with it $1,000 for research expenses.
- Current member of the junior class and senior status in the following fall term;
- Completed at least 75 credit hours by the end of the fall term prior to applying, with a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher and at least 30 credits earned at Messiah College;
- Exemplary accomplishments in scholarship, especially research, critical thinking and writing skills; and
- All requirements for graduation completed in time for commencement during the academic year in which they received the scholarship.
- All eligible students are encouraged to apply. An application consists of the following:
- A completed application form, which can be obtained from the Sider Institute web site or from Jay McDermond (jmcdermo@messiah.edu).
- A résumé, not to exceed two pages, including:
- Name, major, class standing, current address and telephone number;
- Academic projects and achievements of special merit;
- Previous academic scholarships received; and
- General research interest and specific area of potential research.
- Two recommendation forms completed by two members of the full time faculty at Messiah College, one of which has agreed to serve as your independent study instructor if you are named as a Wittlinger Scholar. Place your name and ID number on the forms. Please ask the faculty members to complete the recommendation form and return it directly to the Sider Institute, Box 4033.
- A brief, two page maximum, summary of the applicant’s specific area of research
- Applications must be submitted to the Sider Institute, Box 4033.
-
Applications are reviewed by the Wittlinger Scholar Selection Committee, and three scholars will be selected.
- Applicants will be notified of their selection by the end of April.
- Wittlinger Scholars will be recognized in the Fall Honors Convocation and at Commencement.
Questions can be directed to Jay McDermond at:
jmcdermo@messiah.edu or ext. 3110
