United Methodist Foundation of Michigan Leadership Scholars Program for Seminary Students ✦

This scholarship program recognizes seminary students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership potential and who have pursued an education that will assist in their ability to be adaptive leaders across the Michigan Area of The United Methodist Church.  Applicants are recommended by the Michigan Conference Board of Ordained Ministry and must meet eligibility requirements in order to be considered.  The scholarships assist seminary students with the common financial challenge that they face while attending seminary.  Multiple scholarships up to $10,000 for full-time students and up to $5,000 for part-time students may be awarded. 

Qualified applicants must submit an application, a response to essay questions, an official transcript, a letter of recommendation from the supervising district superintendent, and two (2) additional letters of recommendation prior to April 15th of the year prior to the academic year in which the scholarship will be provided.  Applications are available online at www.umfmichigan.org. 

Scholars must meet a number of eligibility requirements including:

  • Be a certified candidate under the supervision of the Michigan Conference Board of Ordained Ministry
  • Be enrolled as a part-time or full-time student and currently attend a seminary accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and approved by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of The United Methodist Church
  • Demonstrate exceptional leadership capacity to serve The United Methodist Church
  • Declare an intent to serve for a minimum of five (5) years on a deacon or elder track within the Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher
  • Provide personal financial information to demonstrate financial need

All scholars and applicants shall be notified of the award decision in early May.  Scholarship funds shall be paid to the seminary for the benefit of the scholars in two installments – the fall and spring semesters following the add/drop course deadline.  The scholarship amounts may vary annually relative to the funds available.  The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan is committed to being a partner with the Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church in addressing pastoral leadership excellence and clergy personal financial acumen.  The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan Leadership Scholars Program for Seminary Students is one of our hallmark examples of this partnership.  Direct any questions to the Foundation office 888-451-1929 or info@umfmichigan.org.

Letters of Recommendation: (To be provided directly from the recommender)

Provide a letter of recommendation from your supervising District Superintendent. This letter should specifically address the DS’s perception of 1) your gifts and skills, 2) your capacity to serve as an exceptional leader in the Church, and 3) the opportunities for your continued growth as a leader.

In addition, provide two (2) letters of recommendation from seminary faculty members, administrators, or staff, denominational leaders, or field assignment supervisors.  Letters from members of the District Committee on Ministry or the Board of Ordained Ministry or a parishioner are NOT acceptable letters of recommendation. These letters should specifically address their perception of 1) your gifts and skills, 2) your capacity to serve as an exceptional leader in the Church, and 3) the opportunities for your continued growth as a leader.

 

Note: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits an educational institution from releasing confidential, non-directory information about a student without a student’s consent. You may waive this right for faculty and staff when you ask them to write a letter of recommendation for this scholarship application process.  It is your responsibility to provide this consent and to follow the appropriate protocol of the seminary.

Reminder:  In order for your application to be considered, the following must be returned by April 15.  It is your responsibility to verify all information has been received in our office by the due date.

  •  Completed Application
  • Response to Essay Questions
  • Official Transcript
  • District Superintendent Recommendation
  • Two (2) Additional Letters of Recommendation

Please complete the following application by APRIL 15.

Apply now