What does it means to be a Catholic thinker and leader in today’s world?
The Breitbach Catholic Thinkers & Leaders program is comprised of sixty students engaging in academic work and servant leadership. As you learn and grow you are encouraged to discover how you can meet the needs of the church and world through sharing your own talents. The program put Catholic teachings into action. Up to fifteen students are invited to join each year.
Breitbach students take several courses together—including a term in Italy paid by the program—and earn a Catholic studies minor. Students pursue a variety of majors while participating in activities ranging from athletics to music to student government.
Through the program, you attend monthly dinners with speakers on faith and leadership, plan and attend retreats and events, and serve the community. One of the best parts of the Breitbach program is the strong community of students who support and challenge each other to grow as faithful and reflective leaders during your four years at Loras College.
Made possible by a generous $15-million donation from Paul (’60) and Frances Breitbach, students have made a big impact at Loras and beyond, since the first class of Breitbach scholars entered in the fall of 2007.
Program Hallmarks
- Receive a $4,000 annual scholarship in addition to your acceptance award
- Travel to Italy for a May Term course—with all course fees paid
- Selected applicants are invited on-campus to interview in February
- Program acceptance is announced late-February
- Applicants who complete the interview who are not chosen for the program, will receive a $1,000 one-time award
Criteria to Qualify
- Apply and be admitted to Loras College
- You must be Roman Catholic to apply
- Submit the Breitbach Catholic Thinkers & Leaders program application and supporting materials by January 15
- If vaccinations are required or recommended for international and/or group travel, including due to the restrictions of another country, participants must either submit documentation of their updated vaccinations to the college ahead of travel or forego travel without adjustment to the benefits awarded through participation in the Breitbach program.