Named in honor of William H. and Elizabeth Gray Danforth, the former WashU Chancellor and First Lady from 1971 to 1995, the program is a tribute to their exemplary leadership and service.
The Danforth Scholars Program honors students with a passion for helping others. We are looking for students who have demonstrated leadership in service and a strong commitment to community. Danforth Scholars are also known for their academic excellence, personal integrity, and high ideals.
Danforth Scholars may receive full-tuition scholarships with a $2,500 stipend or half-tuition scholarships. The scholarship is renewed each year for the duration of the degree program, provided you progress academically and uphold the high standards of character required of scholars.
For more information, visit the the Danforth Scholars Program website.
Eligibility
The Danforth Scholars Program is open to students applying to any undergraduate division.
Interviews for Finalists
Finalists will be notified by the end of February and invited to a virtual interview. Finalists must attend the interview to remain eligible.
To Apply
- Submit an application for admission to the Class of 2029.
- Write a short answer (maximum 100 words) on the following topic:
Chancellor Danforth and Mrs. Danforth deeply cared about building trust within the community and being of service to others and embodied a spirit of servant leadership, enhancing the experiences of students, staff, and faculty. Reflecting on the lives and legacies of the Danforths, share a specific example of how you have demonstrated a commitment to servant leadership and improving your community.- If you’re submitting the Common Application, you can find the required short answer question in the Writing Supplement section.
- If you’re submitting the Coalition Application, you will complete the short answer question in the WashU Pathway, after you’ve submitted your profile and the Washington University-specific questions.
- In addition to the required short-answer question, we highly recommend you complete our optional Writing Supplement.
- The scholarship committees will review the required counselor and teacher letters of recommendation submitted with your Common or Coalition Application. You may submit an optional third letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your contributions and commitment to community.
Deadlines
All applications must be submitted by January 2, 2025.
William H. and Elizabeth Gray Danforth
As the former chancellor and first lady of WashU, the Danforths inspired countless others with their values, character and commitment.
The late Dr. Danforth spent 20 years at the university as a medical resident, faculty member, and then vice chancellor for medical affairs before he began serving as our 13th chancellor in 1971. When he retired 24 years later, he was credited with leading the effort that molded us into one of the nation’s finest teaching and research institutions. Following his retirement as chancellor, Dr. Danforth served as chairman of the Board of Trustees for four years and then continued to serve as our chancellor emeritus.
The late Mrs. Danforth actively supported her husband in his long career – engaging everyone with her warmth, intelligence and compassion. Her name is linked to endeavors that reflect her exceptional spirit and commitment.
The Danforths devoted countless hours to building our community and maintaining ties with our students and alumni. But their reach extended well beyond the university. Dr. Danforth continued to be one of St. Louis’ most highly regarded public citizens and a tireless champion of the community until his passing in September 2020.