President’s Emerging Scholars (PES) is a comprehensive collection of programs and services that support high-achieving, historically underserved students in their pursuit of a bachelor's degree at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.
Students are selected for the program based on holistic review conducted by the Office of Admissions. Participants have strong academic and leadership experiences, as well as connect in meaningful ways with their schools and neighborhoods. They also show resilience through their overcoming of personal and systemic barriers. Overall, PES students demonstrate distinctive qualities which make them assets to the University community.
PES students are also diverse: Many are the first in their families to attend college, students from poor and working-class backgrounds, older students, rural students, student parents, students for whom English is not their first language, and students with disabilities.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
The mission of the PES Program is to ensure timely graduation of its participants by encouraging and supporting academic, career, and personal wellbeing through scholarships, programming, professional advising, and peer mentoring.
Vision
Our vision is that all PES students will attain self-determined success.
Values
Authenticity: Openness and honesty increase organizational effectiveness.
Community: Relationships and sense of belonging are essential.
Integrity: PES serves its stakeholders honestly and ethically.
Quality: PES practice is research-informed, innovative, and collaborative.
Self-Determination: Students are expert in defining and attaining their goals.
Social Justice: PES advances the full and equitable participation of all groups in society.
Student Success: Students’ holistic wellbeing is paramount.
Program Components
PES students who engage meaningfully with the program’s expectations receive a $1,000 scholarship in their first and last year at the University. Participants have access to individualized advising and mentoring, scholarships set aside exclusively for PES students, as well as courses and events to aid in making life-long friends and building the 21st-century skills needed for college and post-college success.