SPIRIT Scholars help develop students

The SPIRIT Scholars Program was initiated in 1998 by Phillips Petroleum Company, and has provided talented Mines students with invaluable hands-on exposure to the company and to the energy business ever since. ConocoPhillips partners with Mines through the program to offer students a unique set of enrichment and professional development opportunities. Mines is one of only eight universities in the country at which ConocoPhillips has established this program, which provides students with $5,000 scholarships, along with hands-on industry experience, mentoring and professional development, and valuable leadership and service opportunities. Past SPIRIT Scholars Program activities have included community service projects with the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Habitat for Humanity and the Golden Gallop charity run, exclusive dinners with company representatives, cooking classes, professional development lunches and sporting and performing arts events.

Student recipients have exemplary academic records, demonstrated leadership abilities and a strong interest in becoming the future leaders of the energy industry. During the 2010-2011 school year, 21 SPIRIT Scholars will participate in the program at Mines in the areas of Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Geophysics and Geology. A top campus recruiter, ConocoPhillips currently employs more than 150 Mines graduates and continues to invest in the school with funding for Marquez Hall, departments and student organizations. Bryan Martinez-Rahoe, third year SPIRIT Scholar, comments “To me, being a SPIRIT Scholar brings me the hope that someday I WILL make it through Mines!”

SPIRIT Scholars Program applications are being accepted until October 31, 2010 for the 2011-2012 academic year – visit https://copspiritscholars.avature.net/ssp to apply. Please contact Christie Sava at christie.sava@is.mines.edu or 303-273-3523 for additional information.