Pioneer Service Scholars

TWU students volunteering at city of Denton garden.

The Pioneer Service Scholars program at Texas Woman’s University is a unique opportunity for students committed to making a positive impact on their communities. Designed to support those who want to develop their leadership potential while contributing to meaningful social change, the program empowers students to build their community service experience and leadership skills.

Funded by the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership, the program selects approximately 50 students each semester, offering them up to a $500 scholarship each semester. This funding is awarded upon successful completion of program requirements, including attending orientation, mid-term meetings, and a final reflection, while completing a minimum of 30 hours of community service.

Through this program, Pioneer Service Scholars deepen their understanding of social issues, engage in thoughtful self-reflection, and develop essential skills such as collaboration, teamwork, and effective communication. They learn to navigate the complexities of service work, gain valuable leadership experience, and form lasting connections with peers who share a commitment to community involvement.

The Pioneer Service Scholars program is more than just an opportunity for financial support—it's a platform for students to explore their potential, grow as community leaders, and contribute to the well-being of others. It’s a chance to make a difference in the community, while discovering how their actions can shape their own future.

For any questions, contact the Center for Student Involvement Service Initiatives at pioneersserve@twu.edu or 940-898-3626.

More Information

Program Objectives

Promote Social Responsibility: Students become active and responsible members of their community by giving back through service. Students will gain an understanding of social issues and the importance of making a positive impact on their surroundings.
Foster Personal Development and Leadership Skills: Through completing service hours, students will build confidence, develop empathy, and learn important skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. Reflecting on experiences helps connect service work to personal growth.
Enhance Understanding of Social Issues and Community Needs: Students will participate in hands-on experiences that deepen understanding of the challenges facing different communities. Students will develop a better awareness of the needs of others and how they can contribute to addressing these challenges.
Encourage Self-Awareness and Personal Growth: Through reflections and activities, students are encouraged to assess their experiences and explore how their service work influences their values, beliefs, and understanding of themselves. This process helps students gain a deeper awareness of their strengths, areas for growth, and the ways in which they can contribute meaningfully to society.
Build Collaboration, Teamwork, and Communication Skills: By working in groups, students develop essential interpersonal skills and learn to collaborate effectively with peers from varying experiences. Students will enhance their ability to communicate their ideas clearly and thoughtfully, both in writing and speaking.
Strengthen Community Connections: Students contribute to local organizations and build stronger ties between TWU and the community. Their service addresses local needs while also establishing connections that might lead to future opportunities for continued service or employment.
Promote Lifelong Volunteering and Social Action: By completing service hours and engaging in reflective practices, students are more likely to develop a lifelong commitment to volunteerism and social activism. Pioneer Service Scholars aims to instill values that will continue to motivate students long after the program ends.

Criteria

Students must apply for each semester they desire to participate by the deadline.
Enrollment as a TWU Undergraduate student.
Enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours during the Fall/Spring semester and 6 hours for a Summer Service Experience.
Be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the university.
Have a minimum 2.25 GPA.
Approval to receive Financial Aid. Pell Grant eligibility is preferred, but not required.
Students must be classified by the institution as a Texas resident and be a US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.

Student Investment

Complete a minimum of 30 hours in the semester (at least 15 at a main community service site approved by the program and 15 hours at on-campus service opportunities).
Participate in the Pioneer Service Scholars Orientation.
Participate in the Pioneer Service Scholars Mid-Term Meeting.
Participate in the Pioneer Service Scholars Final Reflection.
Submit, report, and reflect on service hours completed.

Contact

pioneersserve@twu.edu

Page last updated 4:47 PM, March 3, 2025