Holmes Program

Holmes Scholars logoSince 1991, the AACTE Holmes Scholars® Program has supported doctoral students from historically underrepresented backgrounds pursuing careers in education at AACTE member institutions. AACTE is expanding the Holmes Program to support students at earlier points in their education careers. The expanded programs will provide mentorship, peer support, and professional development opportunities at four levels:

  • The AACTE Holmes Cadets Program will support high school students interested in a career in teaching, school administration, or the professoriate. Learn more
  • The AACTE Holmes Honors Program will support undergraduates. Learn more
  • The AACTE Holmes Master's Program will support master's students. Learn more
  • The AACTE Holmes Scholars Program will continue to support doctoral students. Learn more
  • The AACTE Holmes Program helps participants explore a variety of future career options related to education. Learn more

Participation in the Holmes Program is open to all AACTE member institutions; AACTE charges no additional fee to enroll. Sponsoring institutions are responsible for supporting their Holmes students according to the participation requirements.

William Paterson University of New Jersey piloted the Holmes Honors and Holmes Master's programs during the 2015-2016 academic year. Eastern Michigan University and the University of Central Florida have also initiated a Holmes Honors program, and Eastern Connecticut State University and Winona State University now have a Holmes Master’s program. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is piloting the Holmes Cadets program during the 2016-2017 academic year. Other interested institutions should This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for information about the Cadets, Honors, and Master's programs.

Learn more about the AACTE Holmes Scholars Program's history and governance.

Program Benefits

Benefits for Sponsoring Institutions

  • Participation in the AACTE Holmes Scholars Program is an effective tool for recruiting new doctoral students of color.
  • Participation in the program enhances the retention and graduation rates of doctoral students of color by providing a support network of peers and unique opportunities for professional experiences.
  • Participation in the program demonstrates and enhances the institution's role as a leader in supporting diversity, which is relevant to national accreditation standards.
  • Institutions receive free distribution of faculty search announcements among Holmes Scholars and Holmes alumni.
  • Sponsoring institutions are recognized in AACTE materials. Download the current list of participating institutions.

Benefits for Scholars

  • Membership in a national network of peers with access to dedicated online social networks.
  • Mentoring opportunities by Holmes Scholar alumni currently in academia and other leadership positions.
  • Opportunities to present their research at the AACTE Annual Meeting.
  • Dedicated mentoring programs at the AACTE Annual Meeting.
  • A job fair at the AACTE Annual Meeting and access to position announcements through the year.
  • Annual Holmes Scholars Summer Policy Institute in Washington, DC, including participation in AACTE's Day on the Hill and networking events associated with the AACTE State Leaders Institute.
  • Leadership and professional development opportunities at the national level, such as participation in conference presentations and policy/advocacy training.

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See what Holmes participants and alumni say about the program

Apply for Membership Selection Criteria for Membership Governance & History

Holmes Highlights

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