The mission of the Henderson Scholars Program is to provide access to higher education, educate a diverse group of scholars, and create opportunities for life-long service and learning.
The Henderson Scholars Program is a four-year scholarship program at the University of Oklahoma that supports high-achieving students through leadership development, service learning, and a strong sense of community. As OU’s first official Living Learning Community, first-year scholars live together on campus and engage in weekly cohort meetings that ease the transition to college life. With opportunities for mentorship, community engagement, and leadership within the program itself, Henderson Scholars build lasting connections, gain real-world experience, and graduate equipped to lead and serve at OU and beyond.
From your first day on campus to your graduation celebration, HSP provides structured leadership development and financial support to help you grow and thrive. The renewable scholarship includes academic and co-curricular expectations that help you stay focused and engaged in your journey.
Henderson Scholars become part of a multiyear cohort of peers who uplift, challenge, and support one another. Whether it’s through small groups, study sessions, or group service projects, you’re never navigating college alone.
As students progress through the program, they step into leadership within the community—serving as peer mentors, small group leaders, and program ambassadors. These opportunities develop real-world leadership skills in an environment that values student voice, initiative, and collaboration.
Annual Scholar Retreats focused on leadership, reflection, and joy.
Workshops and professional development on topics like public speaking, emotional intelligence, networking, and personal branding.
Community service and social impact projects that make a difference on campus and beyond.
Social events, alumni panels, and networking mixers to help you build lasting relationships.
Our Impact
Henderson Scholars graduates are some of OU’s most engaged and accomplished students. Here’s what makes our program shine:
Leadership Beyond the Classroom
Our scholars serve as leaders in student government, orientation teams, campus organizations, and academic honor societies. They’re often the students you’ll see running the meeting, starting the initiative, or standing up for others.
Academic Success
Scholars consistently graduate with high GPAs and are often recognized with honors or leadership distinctions. Many go on to pursue graduate and professional degrees, internships, and fellowships.
Lasting Legacies
Each class of Henderson Scholars leaves behind new ideas, campus initiatives, and a trail of impact that shapes the OU community in powerful ways.
HSP is more than a scholarship—it’s a place to belong, a place to grow, and a place to lead.
