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Evan Skilliter

Presidential Scholarship Lecturer

Evan Skilliter '14, assistant professor of health, fitness and sports science was the 2026-27 Presidential scholarship Lecturer. 

Presidential Scholarship Competition

Bluffton University campus

 

Are you a high‑achieving high school student ready to be challenged and rewarded? At Bluffton University, we’re excited to offer the Presidential Scholarship Competition—an annual event where you compete for a full‑tuition scholarship and all participants earn a meaningful award just for joining. This is your opportunity to be recognized for academic excellence, attend a memorable campus event, and launch your college journey with purpose and support.

Why Aim for the Presidential Scholarship

  • The scholarship covers up to full tuition for the four‑year undergraduate experience at Bluffton University.
  • Every student who participates and then enrolls at Bluffton receives a $1,000 annual scholarship. That’s $4,000 over four years, simply for taking part.
  • You’ll join a community of motivated peers, gain recognition for your achievements, and experience Bluffton’s campus and values firsthand.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the competition:

  • You must be a first‑year high school student applying for admission to Bluffton University.
  • Meet one of the three academic benchmarks:
  • 3.1–3.49 GPA + ACT 26 / SAT 1230
  • 3.5–3.89 GPA + ACT 24 / SAT 1160
  • 3.9+ GPA with no test score required
  • Register for the competition and apply & be accepted to Bluffton University.
  • Limited to the first 80 registered participants for full‑tuition eligibility.

What Happens at the Competition

  • The event takes place on campus in January. 
  • Invited students attend a lecture from the Presidential Scholarship Lecturer.
  • After the lecture, participants write a timed essay (approx. 90 minutes) using the assigned reading and lecture notes.
  • Essays are graded by two Bluffton faculty members and combined with GPA and test scores (if available) to select the full‑tuition winner.

How to Prepare

  • Read the assigned book or material ahead of time (provided when you register).
  • Practice writing essays under timed conditions and taking notes during presentations.
  • Visit campus, talk to your admissions counselor, and consider how Bluffton fits your goals and values.
  • Ensure your application to Bluffton is complete and submitted by the deadline.
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