The Breitbach Catholic Thinkers & Leaders Program is a unique and vibrant four-year experience. Its goal is to challenge and engage the whole student – academically, spiritually, personally and socially – while learning what it means to be a Catholic thinker and leader in today’s world.
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. The program intends to put Catholic teachings into action, and invites up to 15 students to join its ranks each year.
The Breitbach Catholic Thinkers & Leaders Program is comprised of 60 students engaging in academic work and servant leadership. As students learn and grow they are encouraged to discover how they can meet the needs of the church and world through sharing their own talents.
Breitbach students take several courses together—including a term in Italy paid for by the program—and earn a Catholic Studies minor. They pursue a variety of majors while participating in activities ranging from athletics to music to student government.
Through the program, students 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 their four years at Loras College.
Unique Features
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- Students receive a $4,000 annual scholarship in addition to their acceptance award*
- Travel to Italy for a May Term course – with all course fees paid
- Selected applicants will be invited to an on-campus interview in February, with acceptances to the program announced later in the month
- Applicants who complete the interview process; however, are not chosen for the program, will receive a $1,000 one-time award in their first year
*Breitbach participants are not eligible for additional stackable awards from the College
Criteria to Qualify
- Apply and be admitted to Loras College
- Students must be Roman Catholic to apply
- Submit the Breitbach Catholic Thinkers & Leaders Program application and all supporting materials by December 13
- Because of program travel requirements, candidates accepted into the Breitbach program are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the fall semester of their first year, and to submit documentation of their vaccination to the college’s Health Center.