Ourso Outstanding Eight Award
The E. J. Ourso College of Business is proud to introduce the Ourso Outstanding Eight, an annual award program that celebrates undergraduate excellence. Students selected for this prestigious award will demonstrate success in at least two of the following categories: academics, leadership, professional development, and campus/community service. The Ourso Outstanding Eight will exemplify the college’s commitment to enriching lives through business education and community involvement.
The E. J. Ourso College will recognize Ourso Outstanding Eight honorees through a publicity campaign and during an event at the Business Education Complex on April 10, 2024. In addition to being publicly celebrated as part of the Ourso Outstanding Eight, students will receive a one-time $2,500 award.
Important Application and Program Information
Frequently Asked questions
In addition to providing information on activities, career aspirations and a brief statement on how a scholarship award would enhance their opportunities, students will also upload their résumés and provide a statement (250 words max) on how they excel in at least two of the four criteria areas: academics, leadership, professional development, and campus/community service. They will also be allowed to submit a letter of recommendation.
We want students to show their creativity when defining success in these areas. With that stated, here are a few examples for each category. This is not a comprehensive list.
Academics: GPA, undergraduate research, case competitions, Honors College participation
Leadership: Student organization officer, class leader
Professional development: Internships, jobs, mentoring program, job shadowing, event
participation, informational interviews completed, and entrepreneurial competitions
Campus/community service: Student organization leader, volunteerism on campus or in
the community
No, this program is only open to students graduating in spring 2024 and after.
Yes, nominations do not replace the application process. Students will be notified of their nomination(s) as they come in. Nominations close on Friday, December 8.
The college will issue a media release about the award. Honorees will be asked to participate in photo and video shoots, tentatively scheduled for March 6-8. Ourso Outstanding Eight profiles will appear in college communications, including social media, web, and newsletters.
Ourso Outstanding Eight is a one-time honor; successful applicants will not be considered
for additional awards. This one-time $2,500 award cannot be retained.
Students who are not selected may reapply if they meet the criteria in future years.
Make a gift to the Business Administration General Scholarship Fund.