Scholarship honors Bishop

St. Bernard's Institute at Albany has created its first full-tuition scholarship since its establishment in 1989.

The Bishop Howard Hubbard Scholarship is being offered to young adults between 21 and 35 who have an interest in obtaining a master's degree in theology and who have a desire to work in ministry, according to Sister Margery Halpin, director of the graduate school.

This is the first scholarship the school has offered. The school offers tuition assistance to other students. The scholarship is being supported by the school's annual development effort, although the school welcomes any donation.

Helping young adults

The school decided to create the scholarship because of the belief that there are young adults who may be interested in pursuing the degree but are not in the financial position to do so.

"We thought maybe younger people are interested but can't afford it," Sister Margery said. "Young adults are not usually able to finance this degree. We feel that it is important to encourage and support young adults in the study of theology so that they may fully develop their potential for leadership."

While young adults have been enrolled in the school in the past, the average age of St. Bernard's students is between 35 and 60, she said.

Honoring Bishop

The scholarship was created in honor of the sesquicentennial of the Albany Diocese and the 20th anniversary of Bishop Hubbard's episcopal ordination, both of which will be marked in 1997.

It was named for the Bishop because of his efforts to include young adults in the Church, according to Sister Margery. Since he also encourages ecumenism, the scholarship will be available to practicing Christians of all denominations.

In order to earn the degree, students must complete 12 courses. Most students take three courses a year and complete the degree within four years. The courses are held in the evenings and on weekends. The recipient will be required to take a minimum of three courses per academic year. Books and fees will be the responsibility of the recipient. The scholarship can be renewed annually upon successful attainment of a B or better average.

The successful candidate will be: between 21 and 35, and a practicing Christian; interested in working for the faith community after graduation; and possessing the necessary prerequisites for graduate level theological study.

(Applications are being accepted from September to December for use in the fall of 1997. Application forms can be obtained by calling St. Bernard's at 453-6760. St. Bernard's Institute at Albany is an extension program of St. Bernard's Institute, a graduate school of theology and ministry studies in Rochester.)

(09-12-96) [[In-content Ad]]