Kent State University - Columbiana Rural Scholars Program
2491 St. Rt. 45 S
Salem
OH
44406
730-337-4233
Contact Name:
Wendy Pfrenger
Contact Email:
Program Description:
Our program, based at Kent State University's Columbiana campuses, serves students in grades 7-12 who have been
identified by their schools as having the potential to be first in their families to complete four-year degrees. During their
years in the program, Rural Scholars receive a combination of individual mentoring, career and college-knowledge
workshops, and structured program guidance as they work toward specified program outcomes. Those that attend Kent
State University may receive scholarships and work in the program as mentors, receiving support on their college journey
while also giving back by becoming role models to younger children in the program.
Established:
2011
Number of Students Served:
113
Funding:
State grant, local foundations and businesses, campus funds, fundraising events.
Mission Statement:
Kent State University's Rural Scholars Program offers first-generation college-bound students from Columbiana County and
neighboring areas a post-secondary opportunity program designed to give them and their families the knowledge, rigorous
academic exposure, and social support they will need in order to be successful at a world-class university.
Objectives:
Our goal is for every student to complete post-secondary education with the credentials necessary to succeed in his or her
career.
Specialty:
Mentoring
Academic Prep:
Yes
College and Postsecondary Planning:
Yes
Middle School (6-8):
Yes
High School (9-12):
Yes
Day:
Yes
Weekends:
Yes
During School:
Yes
After School:
Yes
Summer:
Yes
Weekends:
Yes
School Attended:
Yes
Income Based:
Yes
Residency Based:
Yes
Male:
47%
Female:
53%
First Generation:
100%
Two Year:
12.5%
Four Year:
81.25%
Other (including military, workforce, vocational/trade school):
6.25%
Black or African American:
5.3%
White (Including Middle Eastern):
94.7%