PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Alexander Hamilton Scholars focuses on closing the opportunity gap for young people like Alexander Hamilton.

Each year, AHS selects 35 underserved high school juniors for their academic, personal, service, and entrepreneurial accomplishments, to participate in its no-cost, 5-year empowerment program. These students receive mentorship, practical guidance, and a comprehensive network of support, much like Hamilton did, so they, too, can leave a lasting legacy that will forever change their communities, our nation, and the world.

Provided at no cost to the student the program consists of individual support through phone calls, video conferencing, and emails with AHS staff members and an assigned peer Scholar mentor. Group support and learning is offered through conference calls and Leader Weeks. All curriculum is designed around our 5 Pillars of Success. After completion of the 5-year Empowerment Program, success is defined by all Scholars reaching the following benchmarks:

• TRANSITION: Successful transition from high school to college, and college to career.

• HERITAGE: Increased knowledge of how the history of the United States connects both with each Scholar’s individual journey, and with the collective national experience. Increased civic engagement and participation in community governance.

• EMPOWERMENT: Establishment and fulfillment of the goals identified in the Personal Development Plan process in all 7 key areas – financial, career, educational, public service, family & friends, personal, spiritual. Goals correspond with Scholars’ values and guiding principles.

• FINANCIAL LITERACY: Scholars graduate college with manageable debt, and with a solid understanding of how to create and manage a budget, save money, and invest in their future financial health.

• LEADERSHIP: Inspired by Alexander Hamilton’s legacy of leadership through service, Scholars prioritize and value their responsibility to use their talents and skills to effect positive change in their communities, the nation, and the world, and have an overall understanding of the importance of social impact and legacy.

Achieving these goals requires AHS staff to offer their full support and guidance to each Scholar while helping them access resources and opportunities. This relationship and the success of the program relies on reciprocity and a mutual commitment from both AHS staff and Scholars. Each curriculum year has corresponding assignments and conference calls that require Scholar time and attention, and prompt communication is essential.

Winners will also receive a $500 cash scholarship to pay for college expenses.  In addition, all winners will have access to AHS internship programs and will join a distinguished cohort of peers from across the US. This unique Scholar community extends back through 12 years of cohorts and supports one another as they take steps together towards achieving a college education and a meaningful career.