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Kessler Scholars Program

Putting First-Gen First

The Kessler Scholars Program at Centre College provides holistic support for a diverse community of high-achieving students who are the first in their family to pursue a four-year college degree. Combining generous financial support with cohort-based engagement and individualized guidance, the Kessler Scholars Program provides first-generation college students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and to thrive at Centre and beyond. 

Program Pillars and Centre Experiences

Through high-touch mentorship, cohort-based community, and asset-focused programming, the Centre Kessler experience is transformative and meaningful for each scholar and cohort.
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Providing Support

Effective support eases the challenges first-generation students face in pursuing a college degree. This program provides impactful guidance throughout their Centre experience.

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Creating Community

Cohort-based communities build a sense of belonging and shared identities. Group classes, events, and support systems produce true peer group experiences.

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Building Success

Student success is more than a four-year college experience. This program also ensures first-generation students have the resources and support to achieve their goals.

Kessler Scholars Program Benefits

Across their four-year journey at Centre College, Kessler Scholars are part of a close-knit community of first-generation students empowered with resources, support, and opportunities to connect with faculty, alumni, and leaders on campus and beyond, including:

  • One-on-one advising with the Kessler Scholars Program Director
  • Peer-to-peer mentoring with fellow Kessler Scholars
  • Cohort-based activities and opportunities for leadership development and community engagement
  • National networking with Kessler Scholars and Alumni from across the Collaborative community
  • $5,000 of wraparound funding for use toward the cost of study abroad or away programs, supplementing internship costs, research conference attendance, graduate school preparation support, and more
  • Additional funding of $600 toward the cost of a laptop or textbooks upon matriculation to the College.
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Kessler Scholars Collaborative

First-Generation Support for Student Success

The Kessler Scholars Program at Centre College is part of the national Kessler Scholars Collaborative along with 15 other institutions. Students who join are part of a powerful network of first-generation leaders, connected across multiple institutions throughout their undergraduate college experience and beyond.

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