Former Visiting Scholar Kirsten Guidero works with a student in one of her courses.
Each academic year, the Institute for Discipleship provides a $20,000 fellowship and housing to a new or near-completion PhD candidate in religion. The Visiting Scholar teaches undergraduate courses each semester, participates with the faculty in the Social Sciences division, engages in an aspect of on-campus ministry in alignment with the visiting scholar’s gifts, and works on completion and/or publication of their dissertation.
Since 2006, the Visiting Scholar program has been an incredible asset to Southwestern College and the surrounding community, and we feel the teaching experience in higher education is an asset to the scholars. Former Visiting Scholars are now teaching across the United States.
Applications to become a Visiting Scholar are taken by February 10 of each year. For more information, contact Cheryl Rude. You can see a list of past Visiting Scholars and submit an application here.
Past Visiting Scholars have said:
“The Visiting Scholar program not only afforded me the chance to complete my dissertation with the support of a caring academic community, but it provided an opportunity to sharpen my teaching skills with undergraduate students. I will be forever grateful for the many ways the Visiting Scholar program equipped me for continued service to the Church through the academy.” – Matt Sigler
“The Visiting Scholar program is expertly designed for graduate students to transition into positions of teaching, ministry, and leadership. Southwestern and the Institute for Discipleship provide a community that unites both knowledge and vital piety. The faculty, staff, and local churches work together to train students and renew the church. It was a wonderful opportunity!” – Stephen Sours
Visiting Scholar News