Bringing it 

The dCenter is a busy, bustling place.  People are in and out, working on everything from homework to butcher-paper banners for Carnival to club meetings to naps.  The space is special and tailor made for student comfort and access.  Of the students who come into the dCenter, our Rieke Scholars are the advance guard, a special category of student leader who applies for a scholarship that means something outside of the application.  Each scholar, when they accept the scholarship, is required to become an active member of the dCenter space, planning programs, helping others get accquainted in the space, and being a positive face for guest.  Comitting to three hours a week, nearly 45 hours a semester, Rieke Scholars use their time in the dCenter to make things happen.

With nearly 40 scholars this year, the dCenter is excited for the things our Rieke Scholars will be doing.  Check in here often for updates on what the Riekes are doing and their journey to becoming active change agents. 

Scholarship History

The Rieke Leadership Award was established in 1988 by President William O. Rieke to reaffirm the university’s commitment to inclusiveness and diversity.  Recipients of the award are men and women of any ethnic background who demonstrate their leadership in promoting racial and ethnic diversity at Pacific Lutheran University and beyond.  Recipients of the award are expected to participate actively in curricular and co-curricular activities in a multi-ethnic context.  Each Rieke Scholar will work with Pacific Lutheran University’s Diversity Center.  There is an expected time commitment of three hours per week for the academic year.  Through involvement in the Diversity Center, Scholars will enrich the fabric of university life while increasing their own leadership skill.