Michigan State University President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., today shared the details of one of the preeminent student success initiatives touted at his investiture just two months ago: the Joseph R. and Sarah L. Williams Scholarship — the university’s first full-ride scholarship covering tuition, room and board, books and supplies and an experiential learning opportunity for awardees. The scholarship will be available to 30 qualifying undergraduate students beginning in the fall 2025 semester.

The merit-based scholarship, named after MSU’s inaugural president and first lady, will fully fund tuition, food and housing and an education abroad or other experiential education opportunity for up to eight semesters for qualifying in-state, out-of-state and international students. The scholarship also positions MSU to be more internationally competitive by more than doubling the number of full-ride awards that MSU offers.

“Higher education is the gateway to knowledge and experiences that help students discover their purpose and achieve personal success,” said Guskiewicz. “Students considering the Williams Scholarship often have opportunities to attend many schools, but we want them to know that by coming to Michigan State University, we will prepare them for opportunities anywhere in the world.”

Today’s announcement sets the stage for approximately 1,000 of the world’s highest academically talented students and curious learners to come to MSU in January and February to participate in the Williams and Alumni Distinguished Scholarship Competition. MSU students have been selected to receive numerous endorsed awards in past years — a success rooted in the university’s commitment to increasing access and reducing financial barriers to a world-class education.

“This scholarship is a key, unlocking doors to an education where new scholars can create futures that create a better world,” said John Ambrose, MSU director of Admissions. “This means the 169-year-old legacy of life-changing opportunities that Spartans have experienced will continue and we look forward to welcoming these inaugural scholars for the Williams Scholarship.”

“The Williams Scholarship significantly expands our ability to attract talented students to MSU. Because of this support, scholars will be able to maximize learning in research and service endeavors, cornerstones of an MSU Honors College education,” said Honors College Interim Dean Glenn Chambers. “We are grateful to President Guskiewicz for his expanded commitment to our competitiveness, which will have a monumental impact on future changemakers.”

Eligible students must have full-time enrollment for fall and spring semesters. The award will pay for up to 18 credits per semester and applies toward a student’s first undergraduate MSU degree only. Other eligibility criteria for the Joseph R. and Sarah L. Williams Scholarship include:

• a cumulative GPA that places students in the top 5% of their graduating class;
• a high number of rigorous courses, including Advanced Placement, or AP, International Baccalaureate, or IB, or dual enrollment;
• an average 32 ACT composite or 1450 SAT, for those who submit test scores; and
• international students are evaluated based on MSU application materials (grades, transcripts, rigor of courses, recommendation letters, etc.), short essay, and a formal interview with a committee consisting of representatives from the Office of Admissions and the Honors College.

Joseph R. Williams was heavily involved with the agricultural sector of Michigan politics. He served as president of the Michigan Agricultural Society and advocated for the need of an agricultural college in the state. The State Board of Education selected Williams to serve as the first president of the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, which today is Michigan State University. He served as president from 1857-1859.

Sarah L. Williams was the wife of Williams and was a women’s rights activist. She was the founder and editor of the Ballot Box, the official publication for the suffragist movement. She also served as a nurse on the front lines of the Civil War.