Three Margaret Boyd scholars sit outside on a porch talking
Margaret Boyd Scholars Program

Margaret Boyd Scholars Program

Named in honor of Margaret Boyd, Ohio University's first female graduate (of the class of 1873), the Margaret Boyd Scholars Program provides diverse undergraduate students with intentional experiences which build skills and encourage self-reflection. The MBSP cultivates curious scholars who pursue knowledge, delight in discovery, champion equity and engage in community to advance female scholarship.

The program provides mentorship and a space for faculty, staff, students, and graduates to interact in mutual support that empowers students to engage with women and other marginalized genders to become leaders and citizens at OHIO and beyond.

The Margaret Boyd Scholars Program is open to students from all colleges and majors. Scholars are encouraged to pursue other interests, including study abroad, athletics, and involvement in campus and community organizations.

  • Advisory Board

    Meet the Margaret Boyd Scholars advisory board members!

  • Request More Info

    To find out more about the Margaret Boyd Scholars Program, please email Risa Whitson with questions at whitson@ohio.edu.

Calling All First-Year Students! 

Join a select group of curious scholars who pursue knowledge, delight in discovery, and engage in community. The Margaret Boyd Scholars program is open to students from all colleges and majors.

The deadline to apply is Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

Year-by-Year Expectations

For Margaret Boyd Scholars

  • First Year

    • Participate in onboarding and self-exploring as provided by MBSP and board members
    • Attend a monthly meeting
    • Attend one MBSP or promoted community-based event per month
    • Participate in the book read with Graduate Assistant
    • Attend the Retreat
    • Attend seminars with engaging conversation and active participation
    • Show up to mentor meetings
    • Participate in board member-led book club
  • Second Year

    • Live in Bryan Hall (unless exempt) or spend 4 hours a month in the MBSP Lounge
    • Attend monthly meeting
    • Attend one MBSP or promoted community-based event per month
    • Mentor a first-year scholar and organize monthly meetings with the mentee & be accessible to the mentee
    • Participate in Board Member led book club
    • Selected scholars serve as Retreat Leaders
  • Third Year

    • Participate in volunteer opportunity or an internship via MBSP program
    • Participate in MBSP professional development workshops
    • Attend monthly meeting
    • Attend one MBSP or promoted community-based event per month
    • Meet with three different board members over a semester
    • Maintain contact with the mentee
  • Fourth Year

    • Attend monthly meeting
    • Attend one MBSP or promoted community-based event per month
    • Attend Seminars with engaging conversation and active participation
    • Act as a leader in the program by mentoring, advocating for the program, and sharing experiences
    • Seniors plan welcome back events