Academics
Distinguished Programs

Academy Humanities Scholars Program

Start a Pathway to a Career in Humanities

Through the boundless exploration of what makes us human, the Academy Humanities Scholars Program will prepare students for a life of compassionate leadership and service through studies in literature, history, theology, and the arts. Students will learn to preserve the past, appreciate the present, and imagine the future of humanity. Equipped with this knowledge, Academy Humanities Scholars will be empowered to make intellectual, moral, and spiritual decisions that are grounded in unifying love.
Participants in this program will learn through courses, service learning, and various experiential learning opportunities (e.g. field trips, guest speakers, etc.).

Program Requirements

List of 4 items.

  • Course of Study

    Students will enroll in core and/or elective courses to represent four to five humanities disciplines (Honors, College Credit Plus (CCP) or AP® as applicable to each student’s academic goals).

  • Formal Capstone Presentation

    At the end of senior year, each student will present her reflections, growth, and future plans to a panel of professionals and academic administration. The AHSP capstone will also feature a product that graduating students will create from the fusion of two or more humanities disciplines.

  • Online Portfolio

    An online portfolio links each student’s experiences and provides context for learning and reflection. Students create an electronic portfolio that documents and illustrates their work, growth and development as they accomplish program requirements.

  • Service Learning

    Service learning is rooted in intentionality, a process that develops empathy, responsibility and self confidence. This component encompasses “serving the dear neighbor,” a keystone of the teachings of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. By the end of the first semester of their graduation year, Academy Humanities Scholars should have completed a total of 30 service learning hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

List of 7 frequently asked questions.

  • Is there a minimum GPA requirement?

    There is no minimum GPA required for the Academy Humanities Scholars Program. Since many of the Academy Humanities Scholars Program opportunities occur while class is in session, students are expected to be in good academic standing in order to participate in those activities.

  • What is experiential learning?

    Experiential learning involves learning environments that extend beyond the classroom. It provides students with authentic experiences in preparation for a career in a humanities discipline. By the end of the first semester of their graduation, an Academy Humanities Scholar should plan to attend 13 or more experiential learning activities/events.

  • What courses are offered?

    Students who aspire to be Academy Humanities Scholars should enroll in core and/or elective courses to represent four to five humanities disciplines (Honors, CCP or AP® as applicable to each student’s academic goals).

  • How do I apply?

    The Academy Humanities Scholars Program application process consists of three stages, including the completion of an initial application form, an interview with the Academy Humanities Scholars Director and final notification of acceptance into the program. The Academy Humanities Scholars Program begins in sophomore year and ends upon graduation in senior year.

  • Is there a faith component?

    Yes. Through the charism of the Sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph, the program prepares young women to live the Gospel through prayer, reflection and service to the “dear neighbor.” Service learning is an intentional, reflective process that develops empathy and compassion.

  • Who can apply?

    Students who are interested in learning to preserve the past, appreciate the present, and imagine the future of humanity are invited to apply to the Academy Humanities Scholars Program. The program accepts interested students during the second semester of their freshman and sophomore years. Junior students may also be eligible on a case-by-case basis.

  • Who do I contact for more information?

    Contact Academy Humanities Scholars Program Director Mrs. Becky Goede McNulty ’96 at bmcnulty@sja1890.org.

Mrs. Becky Goede McNulty ’96

Academy Humanities Scholars Program Director

You are invited to explore the Academy Humanities Scholars Program at Saint Joseph Academy! This program is designed for students to become inquisitive learners who broaden their perspectives by seeking emerging wisdom; enlightened patrons who value and create the art that defines cultures and generations; informed and empathetic citizens who think critically and act with integrity; skilled communicators who seek justice and strive to mend divisions; and visionary leaders who are driven to meet the unmet needs of others and serve the dear neighbor without distinction. 


Please feel free to contact the Academy Humanities Scholars Program Director Mrs. Becky Goede McNulty ’96 at bmcnulty@sja1890.org.