Honors Action Scholars
Ready to make an impact?
Action Scholars use the world as their laboratory to create purposeful change. This program builds community, guides students to resources, and gives them an outlet to turn their ideas into reality. As a cohort, students work together to bring personal passion projects to life, working through the planning stages, obstacles, and follow through. Through this process, students learn to develop sustainable action plans grounded in personal well-being, enabling them to effectively balance their passions with the academic and personal demands of college life.
Students who participate in the Action Scholars program will join in their first year and commit to the program throughout their Honors College enrollment. Action Scholars participate in a kick-off retreat, enroll in Action Scholars courses, and develop their plan for both personal and professional action and impact. Students also receive ongoing mentorship, professional development, and unique Experiential Learning opportunities through the duration of their time in the cohort.
Fall 2026 Information Sessions
- October 6: in the Honors Center Great Hall from 5–6p.m.
Meet with current Action Scholars, learn about their Action Plans and discover how to apply. - October 14: Online via Zoom – 4–5 p.m.
Finalize your applications and ask any remaining questions before the October 15 application deadline.
Questions?
Email Kristine Vernon, Honors Associate Dean of Curriculum and Faculty Affairs, at kvernon@clemson.edu.
“Action Scholars is a transformative program that turns students’ passions into tangible community impact. Through mentorship, practical resources, and hands-on opportunities, it empowers students to develop their ideas, grow as leaders, and create lasting change. My experience has given me the confidence and support to turn my passion for health equity into action.”
Habiba Hassan Aly2026 Action ScholarHealth Science major
Action Scholars
- Are part of a cohort-based program with peers also interested in making an impact
- Receive one-on-one and peer-group mentoring and professional development
- Participate in a retreat and unique Honors courses solely dedicated to Action Scholars
- Receive prioritization for some Honors in Action Experiential Learning activities
- Design their college and Honors journey in a meaningful way
- Have an opportunity to stand out among the crowd
Scholar Timeline
- First year (Fall semester): Apply by October 15
- First year (Spring semester): Participate in a retreat and cohort course
- Sophomore through senior years: Participate in Honors in Action events, courses and other experiential learning activities; implement your action plan
- Junior year: Enroll in capstone Action Scholars course
- Senior year: Build an action portfolio and receive mentoring for post-graduation plans
Honors Action Scholars Projects
Hugh Buxton
"Solid Orange Wisdom" is a student-led podcast designed to give Clemson undergraduate students a platform to share their life experiences, guiding values, and general advice through candid, genuine conversation.
Kristen Evans
Reduce the underrepresentation of women’s health in scientific research by initiating the start of Creative Inquiry project at Clemson centered around women’s health issues.
Habiba Hassan Aly
Establish Bridge to Care to improve access to primary and preventive healthcare for individuals who fall into the insurance coverage gap by providing accessible primary and preventive care through early-detection screenings, follow-up visits, and coordinated continuity of care.
Alayna Khoja
Establish a digital tool for Clemson Honors students to connect with upperclassmen and alumni for guidance on research, internships, study abroad, scholarships, shadowing, and networking opportunities.
Elizabeth Lawson
Partner with high schools to implement social events specific to students with special needs.
McKenna Lyons
Bring preventative mental health awareness and techniques to college students.
Saira Malhotra
Create an open space for siblings of individuals with special needs to foster community and highlight unique experiences. Develop a postsecondary transition program in Miami that helps young adults with disabilities find purpose, independence, and opportunities to pursue their own futures.
JD Martin
Taking one step in strengthening community for the underserved community families in the Clemson area by delivering after school tutoring programming.
Avery Radwinsky
Support individuals who fall within the healthcare coverage gap through community events that provide educational resources, preventative healthcare guidance, nutrition information, and preliminary screenings.
Jennifer Waddle
Improve public speaking skills within K-12 students to foster a foundation that creates passionate, confident, and well-spoken individuals.
