Geoffrey Canada Scholars

Geoffrey Canada Scholars (GCS) is the THRIVE Initiative’s flagship program that provides academic enrichment and college transition supports, programming, and resources. Named after Bowdoin alum Geoffrey Canada, educator and activist; former president and CEO of the Harlem Children's Zone. GCS was created to build community, strengthen well-being, develop leadership, cultivate academic success, and foster retention and graduation among Bowdoin’s first-generation students.

A Bowdoin student is smiling, moving towards the camera

GCS students stand in front of large LL Bean Boot — GCS first-years visit the L.L.Bean flagship store in Freeport, Maine, in October 2018.

Program Overview: Scholars Cohort - starting summer 2026:

The GCS program begins with a four-week Summer Institute designed to help selected incoming first-year students make a strong start at Bowdoin. Scholars live and learn together on campus, taking a half-credit course taught by Bowdoin faculty. These small, discussion-based classes challenge students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and reflect on how they learn—all while getting a real taste of college-level academics.

Outside the classroom, Scholars are supported by a team of Bowdoin upper-class peer mentors who live alongside them in campus housing and share meals in the dining halls. Together, they build friendships, find balance, and begin developing the confidence and habits that support a successful college experience.

Scholars are enrolled in health insurance and have access to counseling services.

The GCS experience doesn’t stop when summer ends—it continues for two full years. Throughout that time, Scholars take part in programming designed to help them navigate college life, connect with mentors, and access personalized academic and individual support.

During the Summer Institute, all Scholars:

Take a ½ credit course titled, “How the World Works (through a scientist’s eyes),” with Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, Michael Danahy, and Laboratory Instructor in Chemistry, Denny Tesfa
Access to THRIVE Success Coach who supports your transition to college
Receive $300 in start-up funds
Receive paid transportation to campus in the summer, plus room and board for the Institute
Receive a laptop computer on arrival, as part of the College’s Digital Excellence Commitment (DExC)
Receive financial support for a family member to visit campus for the beginning of new student orientation at the end of August.

Scholars in their first year receive:

Continued access to a THRIVE Success Coach
Enhanced pre-major academic advising
$1000 in total start-up funds: $500 in September and $500 in January
Program and workshop opportunities

Scholars in their sophomore year receive:

Continued access to a THRIVE Success Coach
Enhanced pre-major academic advising
$1000 in total keep-up funds: $500 in September and $500 in January
GCS Program Celebration: a domestic or international trip during spring break
New interview attire to assist with internship opportunities or securing a position beyond Bowdoin

Selection Criteria

Geoffrey Canada Scholars are all first-generation college students and/or limited-income students who have overcome exceptional odds on their path to college. They are selected and invited to apply during both the early decision and regular Bowdoin admissions process. The factors considered for selection include an assessment of how significant their transition to Bowdoin may be, their previous academic experience, their extracurricular activities, and their home geography.

Cohort Size

15-24 students

Program Duration and Schedule

It is a two-year program, beginning with the Summer Institute in July prior to a students’ first year at Bowdoin and runs through their first and second year.

Contact

Mo Nuñez