“A community of peers and mentors who think boldly about innovation, justice, and change has been very meaningful for me. Being surrounded by people who share that purpose only strengthens the group's resolve to curate solutions that serve the world with integrity and compassion.”
From the Bluegrass State to Occidental College, Jaymes Griggs has found community and a path to leadership through science, civic engagement, and the Obama Scholars Program. And amid all this, he still has time for pickleball.
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Practicing Spanish and learning peace and pura vida in Costa Rica: Julián's journey through the country with no army.
“The Obama Scholars summer program has allowed me to realize that positive impact can come in many forms of service. This has been grounding me as I begin to think of career paths—understanding that there are multiple ways to work in the public good.”
“Through the Obama Scholars Program, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by an extremely supportive cohort of peers and to receive professional mentorship from individuals that I look up to.”
“To have a group that’s focused on leadership, the public good, and how we want to contribute is so meaningful. Knowing there are other people who are working really hard to accomplish these great goals provides hope ... we can work together to make this better world that we’re all dreaming of.”
The Obama Scholars Program at Occidental College supports accomplished students—particularly first-generation college students, veterans, and community college transfers—who are passionate about driving positive change. Open to students in any field of study, the program seeks individuals with a strong academic record and a deep dedication to the public good.
Occidental College has announced its 2024–25 cohort of Barack Obama Scholars, the prestigious leadership training program that seeks to empower exceptional students committed to the public good.
Occidental College has completed its largest-ever comprehensive fundraising campaign, raising more than $252 million for student scholarships, academic programs, campus beautification, and other high-priority needs.
Through a series of leadership trainings and social events, a new cohort of Obama Scholars at Occidental develops skills and cohesion that will propel them through the College’s Obama Scholars Program.