The Serenbetz Institute for Women’s Leadership, Social Responsibility, and Global Awareness works to advance an understanding of leadership characterized by trust, empathy, and integrity. Recognizing leadership as a skill that can be learned and practiced, the Institute provides opportunities within and beyond the classroom, allowing individuals to develop their leadership skills through hands-on practice. The Institute serves as a catalyst for emerging leaders by empowering them to confidently impact their communities and careers.
The Serenbetz Institute issues grant awards to Cottey College students and faculty to enhance learning through summer leadership internships, undergraduate research grants, leadership immersions, and other leadership programming.
The Serenbetz Institute, housed in the Helen and George Washburn Center for Women’s Leadership, was established in the fall of 2010 and named in recognition of a gift to the College by donor Thelma Serenbetz in 2014. Inquiries regarding Serenbetz initiatives may be directed to the director of leadership development at ext. 2116 from any campus phone or by email at institute@cottey.edu.
Serenbetz Grants
The Serenbetz Institute supports students’ leadership projects related to the Institute’s themes (Women’s Leadership, Social Responsibility, and Global Awareness). Students may apply for the following Serenbetz grants:
- Career Catalyst Internship Grants – Grant funds are available to help remove financial barriers so students can pursue their dream internship. Grant funds may be used to cover internship-related expenses such as housing, transportation, and uniforms, and may also include a stipend for unpaid or underpaid internships. Please note: funds may not be used to cover tuition.
- Leadership Immersions – funding for intensive academic study or personal enrichment travel experiences related to the three threads of the Serenbetz Institute.
- Undergraduate Research Grants – funding for students to explore an area of study through faculty partnership in a research project.