Voorhees Scholars

The Diocese of Upper South Carolina, the Diocese of South Carolina, and Voorhees College jointly developed the Voorhees Scholars program for rising ninth grade students in Denmark, S.C. The Voorhees Scholars program includes an one-week intensive on-campus summer experience, and extends throughout the year to include tutoring and library access.

“They live on the campus; they have live-in faculty and individuals who support them throughout the summer in preparation for them going to high school,” said Ronnie Hopkins, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Voorhees. “That is remarkable that the Diocese had the vision to create the Voorhees Scholars program.”

Participating students are identified by their teachers and principal, and the program is designed to encourage them to set goals for themselves for higher education and to support them in these goals. The program began with 14 students in July 2018.

During the summer intensive at Voorhees College, the Scholars live in the residence hall, attended a summer school class, and ate in the dining hall. This introduction to college life was coupled with activities and group exercises to help the students begin to understand what it takes to succeed in college.

Throughout the academic year, Voorhees Scholars gather monthly for Saturday sessions. Some are hosted at Voorhees College showcasing various aspects of campus life, while other Saturdays include field trips for cultural or recreational exposure. The Scholars will remain in the program throughout their high school years. As they progress, they will be offered the opportunity to have a mentor and to complete an internship.

In addition to diocesan support, the Voorhees Scholars program is made possible by grants from Province IV of The Episcopal Church, the United Thank Offering, and The Episcopal Church's Becoming Beloved Community program.

Share this page: Voorhees Scholars

Mission Matthew 25 Grants Cange, Haiti Ecuador Voorhees Scholars Environmental Stewardship Race & Reconciliation Bishops' Public Education Initiative Episcopal Relief and Development

Diocesan Calendar