CANTON, MO — Culver-Stockton College reminds area students that the deadline for their 2025-26 Pillars for Excellence Scholarship Competition is fast approaching. This prestigious initiative is designed to support exceptionally talented students who demonstrate outstanding academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to thriving in both the rigorous academic environment and the broader world beyond college. Applications need to becompleted/received by December 6.
To be considered for the Pillars for Excellence Scholarship, applicants must first meet thefollowing requirements be admitted to Culver-Stockton College as a first-time freshman, maintain a minimum 3.75 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale, and complete the C-SC Leadership Form on MyCulver.com. All eligible candidates will be invited to participate in a competitive selection process. The selection process will include a campus visit with a Wildcat Ambassador, attendance at a session with the Pillars Scholar Committee, and submission of an essay on a multi-faceted current event, as assigned by the Pillars Scholar Committee.
“Our Pillars for Excellence scholarship awardees receive full tuition coverage (awarded annually at the freshman value) and is awarded to highly qualified students admitted to Culver-Stockton College as first-time freshmen,” stated Director of Admission Eric Kniel. This competitive
scholarship program is intended for students who embody the qualities of resilience, intellectual curiosity, and leadership—traits that will help them excel both in the classroom and in their careers after graduation. “The Pillars for Excellence and our Honors Scholars Program offers high-performing students immersive enrichment opportunities in leadership, creativity, service, and research. We encourage our Pillars students to become involved in fine arts, athletics, student life, and Greek life as they develop the leadership skills unique to them,” Haidee Heaton, Honors Program Director Fine and Fine, Applies, and Literary Arts Division Associate Chair.
“Receiving the Pillars for Excellence Scholarship was a life-changing moment for me. It allowed me to pursue the degree and experiences I had always dreamt of at Culver-Stockton College while lifting a huge financial burden. The opportunities this scholarship provides, from global travel to participating in the honors program, have enriched my education far beyond the classroom. To future applicants, my best advice is to be unapologetically yourself- your uniqueness is your greatest strength, and this scholarship will help you grow into the person you are meant to be,” Keri Schindler, C-SC Class of 2028.
Candidates not awarded the Pillars for Excellence Scholarship may still qualify for up to an additional $1,000 in scholarship aid, making this opportunity an excellent path for academically gifted students who are committed to excellence. For more information on the Pillars for Excellence Scholarship, including how to apply, please visit culver.edu or contact the Admissions Office at 800-537-1883 or admission@culver.edu.
ABOUT CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE
Culver-Stockton College, situated on 140 acres in Canton, Missouri, atop The Hill overlooking the Mississippi River was founded in 1853 by members of the Disciples of Christ Church. Today, more than 1,000 students from around the world shape their futures in academic excellence with opportunities in 80 majors and minors, five graduate programs, 19 NAIA inter-collegiate athletics, 35 diverse student organizations, and many campus-life events.
Contact the Marketing & Public Relations Office, at pr@culver.edu or 573-288-6000 ext. 6728 for more information.
NOTE: A number that appears immediately after a person’s name (i.e. Jane Doe ’18) is a reference to the year that person earned their bachelor’s degree from Culver-Stockton.