Jackson Scholars Program
The Jackson Scholars Program at Hastings College is a groundbreaking opportunity for aspiring artists to hone their craft, earn a degree and launch their careers. This innovative program, housed within the Jackson Dinsdale Art Center (JDAC), one of the preeminent art centers in the Midwest, provides unparalleled support and mentorship to scholarship recipients.
The Jackson Scholars Program cultivates artistic talent, fosters community engagement and prepares students for successful careers. It emphasizes the importance of artistic excellence and professional development, providing participants with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Program Highlights
Scholarship: The Jackson Scholars Program scholarship is an all expenses paid opportunity, as the scholarship covers 100 percent of tuition, general fees, room and meals for four years, and also provides professional enrichment opportunities. Four talented high school seniors were selected as part of the inaugural fall 2025 class, while 8 students will be selected for fall 2026.
Studio Apprenticeship: Students enjoy a four-year residency at the JDAC, choosing a studio and becoming apprentices to experienced faculty.
Community Engagement: Jackson Scholars actively engage the community through collaborative art programs or demonstrations, fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
Development: The program provides valuable professional development opportunities, including:
- Serving as college and admissions ambassadors, gaining experience in public relations.
- Enrichment Fund support that may be applied to internships, practicums and experiences, such as conferences, exhibitions and study away opportunities, tailored to each student’s interests.
- Connecting with Hastings College alumni and art professionals to gain insights into the business side of the art world.
Artist-in-Residence Program: The program also funds a rotating guest artist-in-residence, further enriching JDAC’s creative environment.
Selection Process for Fall 2026
For the fall 2026 Jackson Scholars class — current high school juniors are encouraged to apply to Open Space, a summer art immersion program provided by Hastings College and the College’s Jackson Dinsdale Art Center.
Students selected to participate in Open Space will gain experience in five studios and interact with distinguished Hastings College art faculty, alumni and guest artists.
Up to eight Open Space participants may be selected to join the 2026 Jackson Scholars class. Students selected for Open Space who do not receive a Jackson Scholars Program offer will instead receive a top art scholarship to attend Hastings College.
Open Space dates: Late afternoon Sunday, June 15 to noon on Saturday, June 21.
About the Jackson Dinsdale Art Center (JDAC)
The JDAC, which opened in 2016, is a state-of-the-art facility that houses the Hastings College Department of Visual Arts. It features spacious studios including glassblowing, ceramics, sculpture, painting/drawing and printmaking, modern classrooms and two gallery spaces. The JDAC is a vital hub for artistic expression and creativity, providing students with unparalleled resources and opportunities.
Questions?
Contact your admissions counselor or reach out to Dr. Annette Vargas, Vice President for Access, Enrollment & Performance, at avargas@hastings.edu or 402.461.7349.
