About Oliver Wilson Scholars

The Oliver Wilson Scholars program is a learning community that is designed to provide comprehensive academic, professional and social support to students. Students are placed in the OWS program during the application/admissions process.  Students in the program are required to:

• meet with their success coach a minimum of four times per semester
• complete EDH 181- Navigating College Success
• attend weekly study tables
• comply with GVSU's code of conduct and the Office of Student Support and Belonging's community agreements

OWS Program History

This program, formerly known as the Freshman Academy program, was founded in 2003 by Dr. Oliver Wilson, a beloved Director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs who was truly dedicated to student success.  In 2009, after the loss of the founder, the program was renamed to honor his memory and vision for the program. We continue his legacy and vision by providing students in this program with access to advisers who can help with registering for classes, development of study skills, career exploration, and the transition to college.  Learn more about Dr. Oliver Wilson and the history of the program here.