LeadMN Leadership Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by LeadMN

Here’s a clearer, teacher-style version that keeps every detail but presents it in a more organized, approachable way:

Overview The LeadMN Leadership Scholarship recognizes undergraduate students who combine strong classroom performance with meaningful community leadership. Winners receive $1,250 and represent a wide range of service—mentoring Head Start children, organizing youth activities, volunteering as translators, and more.

Quick facts

• Award: $1,250
• Awarded: twice per year (fall and spring)
• Fall applications open: January 1
• Spring applications open: July 1
• Applications close at 11:59 p.m. on the posted due dates

Who is eligible You may apply if you:

• Are a current undergraduate student at one of the 33 Minnesota State Colleges or Universities
• Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Demonstrate strong leadership skills and a commitment to serving others

You may NOT apply if you are:

• A graduate student or a PSEO student
• A member of the LeadMN Board of Directors or the LeadMN Executive Board

What you must submit (application components) Submit a complete online application and each of the items below:

1. Leadership essay (300–600 words)

• Explain what leadership means to you.
• Use personal examples to support your view (your own leadership, people who influenced you, positive or negative examples).

2. College-education essay (300–600 words)

• Explain what a college education means to you and how this scholarship will support your leadership development.

3. Leadership skills statement

• List 3–5 leadership skills you possess.
• For each skill, give one or two examples of how you have used it in:
  1. your education, 2) your community, and 3) your employment.

4. Leadership biography

• An overview of your leadership experience. Include:
  • One specific leadership role you have held
  • The leadership skills you applied in that role and how you used them
  • Concrete examples of improvements you made or promotions you received while in the role

5. Letter of recommendation

• Submit one letter of recommendation from community, campus, or organization leaders who can discuss your leadership skills (one letter should be from a peer).

6. Transcript

• Submit a copy of your unofficial school transcript

Application tips from a teacher

• Pay attention to the 300–600 word limits and proofread carefully.
• Be specific: concrete examples and measurable outcomes make leadership writing much stronger.
• Gather your letter and transcript early so you don’t miss the 11:59 p.m. deadline.

If you want, I can help you draft or edit any of the written pieces before you submit.