Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program

The Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program supports talented undergraduates aspiring to careers in service of the public interest in government, non-profit organizations, corporations, and the community. The program honors Walter Sondheim, a champion of Baltimore's renewal, a business leader, and advocate for public education. Sondheim Scholars understand and address the urgent social problems of American cities and communities through service-learning, internships in local, state, and national government, non-profit organizations, and law, and the completion of original research or activism projects.

Award Benefits and Application

Awards range from $5,000-$22,000 per year for four years. Students should submit an application for undergraduate admission, a separate scholarship application with two letters of recommendation, one from a high school teacher, preferably in social studies, and the other from someone who knows the student well outside of school. Students are encouraged to apply by the early action admissions deadline of November 1 and must submit their completed scholarship application and supporting materials by January 15. Final award decisions are announced no later than March 31.

In Their Own Words

Josh Michael, political science
Arthur T. Johnson, professor of political science, director of the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program

Sondheim Scholars' Experience