SLU Commits up to $1.5 Million to Support Local Students Pursuing Social Work and Criminal Justice Careers

SLU Commits up to $1.5 Million to Support Students Pursuing Social Work and Criminal Justice Careers

ST. LOUIS - The Saint Louis University School of Social Work has launched the ServeTheLou Scholarship Program, a new initiative designed to strengthen the region's social work and criminal justice workforce by expanding college access for talented local students.

The program represents a commitment of up to $1.5 million in scholarship support over the next several years for local students interested in pursuing careers in social work or criminology and criminal justice.

"This exciting new opportunity is designed to invest in the next generation of social workers and criminal justice professionals - students who are passionate about serving and strengthening the St. Louis region," said Noelle E. Fearn, Ph.D., dean of the School of Social Work. "Through this scholarship, we aim to reduce financial barriers and empower local students to make a lasting impact in their home communities."

SLU will work with high schools across the St. Louis metropolitan area to nominate students who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to social justice and community engagement. Admitted students will automatically receive the four-year, 50% tuition scholarship, valued at more than $28,000 per year. They will also remain eligible for additional need-based and merit awards.

"We are deeply grateful to SLU leadership for making this investment in our region's future changemakers," Fearn said. "By partnering with school leaders throughout the St. Louis area, we can open doors for talented young people who are dedicated to equity, advocacy and service."

This new program builds upon a similar effort in SLU's School of Education to expand college access for aspiring teachers and educators. Together, these initiatives reflect the University's growing commitment to community-serving professions and to strengthening the region's talent pipeline.

For more information about the ServeTheLou Scholarship Program, contact Jess Kilmade at the School of Social Work at [email protected].

About the SLU School of Social Work

Founded in 1930, the Saint Louis University School of Social Work is built upon an unwavering commitment to social justice. Ranked in the top 13% of social work programs nationally by U.S. News & World Report, SLU's School of Social Work is a leader in integrating social work practice and education with faculty members who have made substantial contributions to the profession. In addition to social work, the school offers outstanding undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees and certificates in the areas of applied behavior analysis, gerontology, and criminology and criminal justice.