Joining CIVIC Scholars
Learn more about becoming a CIVIC ScholarInterested in Being a CIVIC Scholar?
Nominations are currently open! We typically begin accepting nominations and interest forms for undergraduate students in the spring, with selections for the next program year being determined over the summer. Candidates must be attending Old Dominion University or Tidewater Community College, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Once a student has been nominated, the Program Director will reach out to them directly to share the program application and next steps. Scroll down to see the full application process.
You may fill out a general interest form as a student below.
Application Process
Learn more about our application process.
Nominate a Student
Professors, Deans, College Administrators, current CIVIC Scholars, and CIVIC Executive Alumni can nominate students.
WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR IN FUTURE CIVIC SCHOLARS?
Each year, we strive to put together a diverse class by looking for college students who are:
- Curious: We’ve never known a CIVIC Scholar to turn down an opportunity to learn something new.
- Collaborative: Scholars value teamwork.
- Community Oriented: Scholars have a drive for positive social and community impact.
- Professionally Focused: Scholars want to expand their professional network and business/industry acumen.
Commitment
Scholars program days* are held on the first Friday of each month for the 2026-2027 academic year, except for January. Attendance at program days is mandatory; interested students should verify availability before proceeding with the nomination and application process. Participation in at least one volunteer service project is also required.
- August TBD: Opening Retreat
- Friday, September 4: Program Day
- Friday, October 2: Program Day
- Friday, November 6: Program Day
- Wednesday, November 18: Darden Awards
- Friday, December 4: Program Day
- Thursday, January 14: Etiquette Dinner
- Friday, February 5: Program Day
- Friday, March 5: Program Day
- Friday, April 2: Program Day
- Thursday, April 22: General Assembly Wrap-up
- May TBD: Closing Reception
*Additional opportunities are provided to Scholars throughout the year to further support personal and professional development.
Application Process
1. Nominate
The first step is for a student to be nominated by an ODU or TCC faculty or staff member, a current CIVIC Scholar, or a CIVIC Executive Program Alum.
2. Apply
Once a student’s nomination has been accepted for consideration, they will be sent an application to complete.
3. Interview
After the application has been received, students selected to continue in the application process will be contacted to schedule an interview.
4. Admission
Our team will assess the student’s nomination, application, and interview to determine their fit for the program.
5. Confirmation
Once accepted, the student must fill out a confirmation of participation to secure their spot in the CIVIC Scholars Program for the coming year.
Nominate a Scholar
Professors, Deans, College Administrators, current CIVIC Scholars, CIVIC Executive alumni, and community partners can nominate students that meet the application criteria and who they feel would be exceptional additions to the program.
