Signature Programs

Signature Programs

St. Mary’s College of Maryland offers a number of signature programs that recognize distinct cohorts of students in support of their educational aspirations. Each of these programs is outlined below.

Sum Primus

Sum primus is Latin for “I am First.” The Sum primus program offers students who are the first in their families to attend college a network of support from a community of first-generation faculty, staff and peer mentors.
Learn about First-Generation Students

DeSousa-Brent Scholars

The DeSousa-Brent Scholars program invites students from communities that have been historically underrepresented in higher education to be part of a supportive community of gifted individuals. DeSousa-Brent Scholars participate in cohort-based coursework, motivational events and individual mentoring to cultivate their academic and leadership potential.

Learn about DeSousa-Brent

Landers Scholars

The Landers Scholars Program provides fully funded four-year scholarships (tuition, fees, meals and housing) to students that are from low-income backgrounds and the first in their family to attend college or are underrepresented in higher education.. The highly-selective Landers Scholars Program also offers first-year mentoring and community service opportunities and has been generously funded by the Arthur E. Landers, Jr. and Hilda C. Landers Charitable Trust since 2018.
Learn about Landers Scholars

Monument Scholars

Monument Scholars is a special designation for students who are among the top 10% of students offered admission to the College. Since 1840 this institution has been a living monument to the birthplace of the state of Maryland. Monument Scholars are students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, personal qualities and promise to continue this important legacy.

Students recognized as Monument Scholars will participate in cohort-based activities each semester and receive enhanced academic advising and mentoring in support of their goals. Based on their individual interests, Monument Scholars will also receive direct guidance from the Center for Career and Professional Development, the Health Sciences Advisory Committee and support from the director of national fellowships and awards to support their preparation for postgraduate opportunities. Monument Scholars will be well-positioned to earn future accolades or awards at the College and beyond.