Penn State graduate students selected as Keystone Community Scholars play a vital role in advancing the transformational outcomes of Keystone Community Partnerships by helping to build lasting, community-driven solutions. Through this experience, scholars are supported and equipped with the tools to foster social and economic impact in real-world settings—while contributing to Penn State’s 21st-century land-grant mission.
Through immersive, community-based partnerships, Keystone Community Scholars connect University resources with community priorities and strengthen pathways for future student engagement. Scholars grow as leaders, communicators, and collaborators by working hand-in-hand with local partners to support long-term, systems-level change.
Keystone Community Scholars can expect to:
- Build Bridges: Serve as a vital link between University expertise and community needs.
- Connect with Communities: Engage with diverse communities—urban, rural, and everything in between.
- Develop Pipelines: Support the recruitment of students from across Pennsylvania to participate in future cohorts.
Eligible students will receive an hourly wage and earn a certificate upon completion.
Keystone Community Scholars Application
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
The application deadline has passed.