The Kern Scholars Initiative

The Kern Scholars Initiative was created in 2002 by Drs. Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern in consultation with Dr. Ian M. Chapman.  Through this initiative the Foundation provides selected seminaries with grants for scholarships awarded to evangelical men and women committed to lifelong service in pastoral ministry. 

Kern Scholars receive scholarships through participating seminaries.  They seek seminary education in response to God’s call to serve as pastors of local churches throughout their careers in ministry.  They are 27 years of age or younger at time of application to seminary, and they maintain a 3.25 annualized grade point average.  They are committed to serving as pastors or church planters in the U.S. pursuant upon graduation, and they are expected to eventually become senior preaching and teaching pastors with pulpit responsibilities.  Only students enrolling in the Master of Divinity programs at pre-selected seminaries are eligible.  Information on application procedures is available through participating seminaries.

Kern Scholars who graduate and become pastors are invited to participate in the development of a nationwide network of pastors with unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The Kern Scholars Initiative is made possible through the resources of the Kern Family Foundation in Waukesha, WI.  Click here to see a list of frequently asked questions.

NEW:  The most recent notification of grant awards for the Kern Scholars Initiative was made January 11, 2011.  To see the press release, click here.