SIGNATURE SCHOLARS PROGRAMS
The Signature Scholarships are a unique set of competitive, need-based scholarships built on a collaborative partnership between Berry College, generous donors, a student and the student’s family. Signature Scholars (and their families) contribute no more than $6,000 to tuition, fees, housing and food.
Community-based because of emphasis on extracurricular experiences outside the classroom, each program requires engagement beyond the traditional school year and includes distinctive requirements to live out Martha Berry’s vision — to do good in the world. Signature Scholars invest their time in either designated work or service and leadership development through their specific Signature Scholar program.
GET TO KNOW THE PROGRAMS
Designed to serve students with the highest level of financial need (primarily Pell-eligible students), each of the Signature Scholars programs provides the same financial benefits from the college, though the individual programs offer different focuses. When applying for the Signature Scholarships, students answer questions that help the college decide which program best aligns with their goals and interests.
We encourage applicants to review the requirements of each program carefully. During the application and interview process, they rank each program based on interest and fit. Each Signature Scholars program is designed to give students opportunities to grow personally and professionally through its required components.
THE BONNER SCHOLARS PROGRAM
The Berry Bonner Scholars program is connected to the national Bonner Scholars program and is deeply embedded in Good Neighbor Culture, following the vision of Martha Berry, "not to be ministed unto, but to minister." The Berry Bonner program offers students unique service opportunities across a broad spectrum of nonprofits. This affords them a chance to develop an understanding of systemic community issues and needs that call them to service & action.
GATE OF OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Gate of Opportunity program is built on Berry's historical commitment to making education more accessible to all students who will benefit from and contribute to the distinctive character of a Berry education. Gate Scholars foster a strong sense of community while developing their skills and purpose through tailored LifeWorks positions, mentorship and other programming.
WHITEHEAD SCHOLARS PROGRAM
The Whitehead Scholars program is built on the legacy of two entrepreneurial women, Lettie Pate Whitehead and Martha Berry. It is a regional scholarship designed especially for women. Scholarship requirements focus on a holistic "head, heart and hands" education model, fostering well-rounded individuals through the integration of work, service and reflection.