Santa Clara University

LEAD SCHOLARS PROGRAM

Director: William S. Greenwalt
Assistant Director: Erin Kimura-Walsh

The LEAD (Leadership, Excellence, and Academic Development) Scholars Program provides first-generation University students with a smooth transition to life at Santa Clara. While special emphasis is placed on students’ first year, this program supports and challenges participants throughout their four years at the University. The program is committed to fostering an atmosphere of successful scholarship, community engagement, and service.

1. LEAD Scholars Seminar
This fall course aims to assist students in getting the most out of their University experience by developing the academic strategies and personal self-management skills essential for success at Santa Clara. Seminar discussions and exercises focus on a variety of topics, including transitional issues, campus engagement, academic resources, and individual growth and development. Reserved for LEAD Scholars only. (2 units)

2. LEAD Scholars Seminar
The winter seminar aims to build upon the leadership development of LEAD Scholars and encourages application to campus leadership opportunities. Weekly seminar discussions and exercises focus on a variety of topics, including résumé writing, University involvement opportunities, and identity and diversity exploration, as well as spring quarter course registration meetings. Reserved for LEAD Scholars only. (2 units)

ENGL 1A. and 2A. Critical Thinking and Writing I and II
A two-course, themed sequence for LEAD Scholars, featuring study and practice of academic discourse, with emphasis on critical reading and writing, composing processes, and rhetorical situation. The second course will feature more advanced study and practice of academic discourse, with additional emphasis on information literacy and skills related to developing and organizing longer and more complex documents. Themes may address education and identity, science and society, and other topics. (4 units each quarter)

10. Difficult Dialogues
Explores contemporary controversies through case studies. Focuses on the meanings of dialogue and academic freedom through small group discussions and exercises. (2 units)