Woodford R. Porter Scholarship Program

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Named after former university trustee the late Woodford R. Porter Sr., the scholarship program was created in 1984. The mission and purpose are to provide academic, personal and professional support to all recipients of this scholarship. Areas of support are based on the four pillars of promise which include scholarship, leadership, service and heritage. 

The Porter Scholarship Program at UofL is the university’s largest scholarship initiative, supporting over 500 academically talented students from Kentucky. Rooted in four foundational pillars – academic success, personal and professional development, leadership and community engagement – the program enhances student success through innovative programming, holistic advising and leadership opportunities.  

Highlights

  • Foundational Four Pillars: Provides academic, personal and professional developmental support to recipients. 
  • Largest Scholarship Organization: Promotes interaction, leadership and professional/graduate education among high-achieving Kentucky students. 
  • Membership and Development: Serves over 500 Porter Scholars, focusing on enhancing the undergraduate experience with unique programming. 

Core Programs and Services

  • Porter Scholars in Medicine Program 
  • Early Arrival Program for transitioning students 
  • 1-on-1 coaching for academic, personal and professional growth 
  • Society of Porter Scholars (Recognized Student Organization) 
  • Community service through Porter supPORTERS 

Achievements and Recognition

  • Porter Scholars have received prestigious awards, including Truman, Fulbright and Critical Language scholarships, along with the Etscorn International Summer Research award. 
  • High utilization of REACH support services with over 4,000 hours annually. 
  • More than 52% of Porter Scholars actively participate in the program's retention services. 

Program Size and Impact

  • Largest high-achieving scholarship and recognized student organization on campus. 
  • Network of over 20,000 Porter alumni worldwide. 

Porter Scholars in Medicine Program (PSMP) 

Open to freshmen and sophomores, the PSMP is a collaboration between the University of Louisville/Norton Children’s Hospital Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and the Woodford R. Porter Scholarship program. The program offers clinical exposure, mentorship, career guidance and support to Porter Scholars interested in pursuing a medical career. By fostering connections and providing resources, PSMP aims to increase the number of Porter Scholars entering medical school. 

Objectives

  • Introduce the daily life and skills of a physician through hands-on activities. 
  • Provide mentorship from physicians to inspire medical career aspirations. 
  • Outline the medical school application process and life as a medical student. 
  • Develop essential skills like communication, resilience and teamwork. 

Highlights

  • Summer Internship Program 
  • Personal and professional development workshops 
  • Clinical workshops 
  • Service opportunities 
  • Assured Admissions in Medical School for Porter Scholars (AAMPS) program 

Society of Porter Scholars 

The Society of Porter Scholars mission is to work for its members to encourage the maintenance of high academic standards, enhance leadership development, work diligently to provide services for the community and cultivate an understanding of the heritage of its scholarship recipients while having a focus on the retention and graduation of its membership.