Holmes Scholars Program
The Holmes Scholars Program, part of the Office of Student Success and Global Engagement, supports doctoral students in Purdue University’s College of Education. This initiative fosters a leadership pipeline, preparing future practitioners to shape educational practices as faculty, administrators, and leaders.
Benefits for Scholars
Scholar Commitments
- Serve a 3-year term (doctoral/post‑doctoral).
- Annual engagement:
- Attend the AACTE Annual Meeting and Holmes Pre-conference.
- Submit research proposals for national meeting presentations.
- Engage in at least one additional academic conference (e.g., AERA).
- Present at poster, job-talk, or dissertation funding events.
- Develop and implement a research or advocacy project.
- Attend the AACTE Annual Meeting and Holmes Pre-conference.
Program Highlights
Research & Dissertation Retreat
Focused support for dissertation milestones.
Career Fair
Matches scholars and alumni with institutions for faculty/leadership positions.
Online Webinars
Covering wellness, writing, interview prep, and job market strategies.
Alumni Engagement
Access to the National Association of Holmes Scholars Alumni & ongoing resource library.
How to Get Started as a Holmes Scholar at Purdue University
- Complete Purdue Holmes Scholars Program application (Holmes Scholars application go live in the spring semester i.e., applications for the 2026-2027 school year will be available Spring 2026)
- Submit a two-page cover letter outlining the following:
- An outline of your professional goals
- A brief description of your primary research interest
- Examples of your commitment to scholarship and educational practice
- Why you want to become a Purdue Holmes Scholar
- Current curriculum vitae or résumé
- One (1) letter of support/recommendation from a faculty member
- Interview with Holmes Scholars Interview Panel
Meet Purdue’s Holmes Scholars
2026 Holmes Scholars
In accordance with Purdue policies, all persons have equal access to Purdue University’s educational programs, services and activities, without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic identity and expression, disability or status as a veteran. See Purdue’s Nondiscrimination Policy Statement. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these policies, please contact the Office of the Vice President for Ethics and Compliance via email or at (765) 494-5830.