Koch Scholars Program
In July 1994, Koch Industries, Inc. contributed $750,000 to establish the Koch Scholars Program at Washburn University School of Law. The fund endows the premier, competitive scholarships for students at Washburn Law who, as graduates, will become actively involved in public affairs.
The Koch Scholars Program provides one inclusive scholarship to a full-time student in each fall's entering class. It includes:
- full tuition for three years of law school, at either resident or non-resident rates during the first year and at resident rates thereafter;
- student fees;
- stipend of $6,000 for the first year of law school and $3,000 per year in the second and third years.
About Koch Industries
Koch Industries, Inc. is based in Wichita and is the second largest privately held company in the United States. It has interests in petroleum products and refineries, ranching, grain elevators, chemical technology products, hard minerals, real estate, and financial investments. The company was started in 1940 by Fred C. Koch and two partners from Wood River Oil & Refining Co.
In 1967, upon the death of Fred C. Koch, his son Charles Koch became chair and chief executive officer of the company, which a year later became known as Koch Industries, Inc. The company headquarters now employs 2,000 people.
Koch Industries' lawyers share their expertise with Washburn Law's students in many ways, including teaching or lecturing courses in international business transactions, oil and gas, and energy law.
Selection Criteria
Applicants to Washburn University School of Law for each fall semester whose credentials qualify for the top ten percent of the class are invited to apply for the Koch Scholar Award. The applicant must submit a statement showing:
- the reason for interest in the law as a profession;
- public and community service activities; and
- leadership activities and potential for leadership.
The School of Law's Financial Aid Committee reviews the applications and selects no more that five finalists. The selection of the Koch Scholar is made by the Financial Aid Committee after interviewing the finalists. The selection is made prior to the admission seat deposit deadline.
Eligibility requirements to maintain the award after the first year are
- the absence of sanctions under the School of Law Honor Code,
- enrollment as a full-time student at the School of Law, and
- the maintenance of a 3.0 grade-point average.
