What is a Vilas Scholarship?
The Vilas Scholarship is money awarded students who are interested in the fields of business and/or economics. Vilas Scholars receive a $20,000 scholarship annually, totaling $80,000 over 4 years at St. Lawrence. The scholars also have the opportunity to visit with business organizations and leading professionals each spring.
A bit of background:
The Vilas Scholarship was established in 1976 by the Bodman Foundation of New York City to honor Homer A. Vilas '13. Homer Vilas was a successful Wall Street financier, corporate director and businessman during his life. He also was a generous benefactor to many non-profit organizations, including his alma mater, St. Lawrence. The scholarship assists students both financially but also by connecting students with alumni networking opportunities in the business world.
How to Apply:
Students interested in applying for the Vilas scholarship must submit a complete St. Lawrence application with an additional 200-500 word essay answering one of the following questions.
- Imagine you were granted $100,000 to invest in an existing business or create your own. How would you utilize the funds?
- Indicate an entrepreneur whom you admire and describe why you admire this individual.
- Imagine yourself in 20 years and describe how a liberal arts and science education prepared you for a career in business.
The complete St. Lawrence application and additional essay are due February 1.
How many people get the scholarship?
Each spring, six to eight students are chosen as Vilas finalists. These students are invited on an all-expense paid trip to New York City to interview with trustees and alumni currently working in the business sector. Two students are chosen as Vilas scholars after the interviews and will be notified along with their decision letter in late March. The remaining finalists will receive a $10,000 scholarship annually ($40,000 over 4 years).
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