Montana State Announces Eighth Class Of Hilleman Scholars

Fifty-three high school graduates from across Montana have been selected for their effort and potential as the eighth class of Montana State University's Hilleman Scholars Program, which is named after Maurice Hilleman, one of the state's most influential native sons and an MSU graduate. Mary "M.E." Cunningham, of Fort Peck, Mont., was one of the Hillemnan Scholars from 29 communities across Montana selected.

Hilleman Scholars are eligible for up to $6,500 in academic support for their first year and $4,000 per year thereafter. If they make satisfactory academic progress and demonstrate exemplary commitment to the program in their first three years, scholars may become eligible for an additional $3,000 at the end of their junior year to apply toward a study-abroad experience. Hilleman Scholars are expected to graduate in four years.

"We are so proud to host 53 students from communities across Montana," said Carina Beck, vice provost of the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success at MSU. "They are entrusting MSU and the Hilleman Scholars Program to advance their futures, and we couldn't be prouder to support their educational journey."

Beck added, "This program would not exist without the support of donors and investors. Their generosity helps ensure Dr. Hilleman's legacy continues through the aspirations of our Hilleman scholars. As we celebrate our eighth cohort's arrival to campus, we are humbled by the support we've received."

Each year, the new Hilleman Scholars complete a month-long Summer Success Academy on the MSU campus. The intensive program, administered through the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success, is designed to boost college-level math, writing and critical thinking skills and to equip students with effective learning strategies for the coming academic year.

Academic support continues for Hilleman Scholars throughout their years at MSU, including tutoring, mentoring, advising and more. By their third year, the scholars are expected to pass this support on by serving as mentors and tutors to new Hilleman Scholars.

During the school year, Hilleman Scholars must engage in 10 hours per week of activities designed to prepare them to be a successful student, intern or employee. The focus of these experiences shifts each year as the students progress through college.

In honor of Hilleman's legacy, MSU started the Hilleman Scholars Program for Montana residents in 2016. Each year, MSU Hilleman Scholars are selected based on personal essays, nomination letters, grades and financial need. But paramount in the selection process is evidence of significant academic achievement, leadership and career potential.

More information about the Hilleman Scholars Program is available on the program's website: montana.edu/hillemanscholars.