RELEASED: June 30, 2005

DANVILLE, KY—Once again, Frisbees are flying across the lawn of Old Centre and students are storming Cowan at lunchtime. School is back in session—sort of. On Sunday, 420 Kentucky's Governor's Scholars, a group of the state's high-achieving rising high school seniors, arrived on the Centre College campus.

Click here for Governors Scholars Photo Album.

Already the students have begun making themselves at home by embarking on a range of projects for their classes, familiarizing themselves with the campus and meeting new people.

This year's Governor's Scholars are learning about topics ranging from immigration law to physical science, from quilt-making to digitally remastering photographs. Each class is supplemented by unique projects designed to enhance learning while also keeping the atmosphere of the program light-hearted.

"My class is drama, so I think it's going to be fun," says Calvin Kerr of Russell County. "I don't have to study a lot, but I do have to loosen up and get out of my comfort zone. We're dancing to Britney Spears."

Erin Burger of Louisville is looking forward to a class called "Old Man River." She explains, "My class is going to explore rivers. We're going to learn how to fly fish, and then we're having a big fish fry."

Long regarded as a feast of knowledge, this year's program promises to be a literal feast as well, as students look forward to making ice cream, bread and even cheese.

Many scholars explain that they feel much more comfortable as they become acquainted with the campus and each other. "The first day was kind of tough, but now that I know the campus and I'm meeting people, it's a lot easier," says Rob Gates of Frankfort. Similarly Jeremy Smith of Louisville explains that he is "looking forward to meeting new people and not getting lost."

The getting acquainted goes on and on. Students walking out of the library and the post office can be heard asking each other about hometowns, favorite bands and classes. Large groups congregate outside or in dorm lobbies, while organized activities such as movies and scavenger hunts enhance the getting-to-know-you process.

"I almost didn't want to come, but I've only been here two days and I already don't want to go home," says Kathleen Burke of Louisville. Other scholars immediately agree with her sentiment.

Scholars still have more than a month to spend learning Russian or choreography, listening to distinguished speakers such as award-winning poet Tony Crunk, watching acclaimed movies, and, of course, making new friends.

 

 

 

 

For more Governor's Scholars news:
Jamming, canning and churning with GSP Full story.

Congressman Chandler announces internships for Centre students Full story.

Ed McClanahan holds court with Governor’s Scholars July 14, 2005 Full story.

GSP scholars dig Shaker history July 7, 2005 Full story.
Governor’s Scholars flock back to Centre campus June 23, 2005 Full story.

- end -

Founded in 1819, Centre College is ranked among the U.S. News top 50 national liberal arts colleges. Centre alumni, known for their nation-leading loyalty in annual financial support, include two U.S. vice presidents and two Supreme Court justices. For more, visit http://www.centre.edu/web/elevatorspeech/

For news archives go to http://www.centre.edu/web/news/newsarchive.html.

Back to News and Events Home Page