Purpose

The Cliff Childers Christian Leaders Scholarship Program provides four years of activities, retreats, academic courses and contacts to encourage the “theological exploration of vocation.” Vocation is the work and life we choose following God’s call. Discerning vocation is a lifelong adventure, and the program for CLS students is intended to encourage, motivate, and prepare students for this adventure. The program is co-directed by  Dr. Jonathan Sands Wise, Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Dr. Sheila Klopfer, Associate Professor of Religion.

The Four Year Map

First Year

The first year program is an introduction to vocation through conversation, literature, and reflection.

  • CLS Directions - Incoming CLS freshmen are required to sign up for one of two CLS Directions Pre-Orientation camps. CLS will partially pay for the camp.
  • Distribution of the Vocation Program information and a book.
  • FDN 112 Discovering Vocation: a course offered in the spring semester to read, discuss, and write about vocation.
  • CLS Talks - informal gatherings to talk about issues related to God, vocation, and life in college.

Second Year

The second year program focuses on learning about vocation and reflecting on one’s call through reading, service, and travel.

  • Fall Break Retreat for sophomores and juniors to reflect on summer activities and to make plans for the upcoming year.
  • Seminar Courses on Vocation – 3 hour courses are offered in the Philosophy or Religion departments on the meaning of calling and vocation offered in the spring. (PHI 395 Semimar on Vocation or REL 357 Theology and Vocation of the Cross)
  • Spring Break Trip - as an aspect of the Sophomore Seminar students will choose from several travel options for service or mission work.
  • Students will be encouraged and guided in declaring an academic major.

Third Year

The third year focuses on international travel and deepening the student’s reflection on vocation.

  • Fall Break Retreat with sophomores for reflection on summer activities and preparation or reflection on international travel.
  • International Travel - Students are encouraged to travel internationally trip for academic, ministry, or service activity.
  • Travel reflection sessions for discussing and writing about international travel experience.

Fourth Year

In the final year of the program students will plan for continuing their vocation journey with the help of a mentor.

  • Senior Seminar - One hour independent study course with a faculty mentor to bring all the pieces of vocation discernment together.
  • Optional winter retreat - A time for reflection and fun before the spring semester. We will discuss the impact of vocationally minded individuals in America and the world.
  • End of the Year Bash, a gathering to celebrate the accomplishments and the unfinished work of each student’s vocation.