Dunn Sport and Wellness Scholars

First year Dunn Scholars participate in an autumn seminar course (SCHOLAR 1100.11) focusing on positive psychology and the 10 Dimensions of Wellness, as defined by the OSU Student Wellness Center. Through interactive activities and reflection, students learn how to apply the dimensions of wellness to their personal and professional lives while building connection in the program. 

First year Dunn Scholars are expected to meet the following core program requirements: 

• Attend DSWS Welcome Week events geared towards creating connections with other Dunn Scholars
• Engage in Honors & Scholars, DSWS, campus, and community activities by completing the semesterly DSWS Wellness Menu
• Enroll in the autumn seminar course (SCHOLAR 1100.11)
• Maintain a 3.0 GPA
• Complete a minimum of 10 community service hours each semester

Second year Dunn Scholars are expected to meet the same normative expectations with the addition of optional leadership opportunities. Students have the opportunity to apply as DSWS Leadership Council Representatives where first-hand experience with event planning, group facilitation, and other transformative experiences are offered.

Third and fourth year Dunn Scholars have the option to serve as a mentor for our first and second year scholars with whom they share fields of study or common interests. Our third and fourth years often volunteer at DSWS sponsored events, attend bi-monthly third and fourth year events, and are encouraged to join our Dunn Scholars Alumni Society following their graduation from The Ohio State University. 

• ​​DSWS Welcome Week: After moving into Morrill Tower, Dunn Scholars participate in community focused and sports related activities like our yearly DSWS Volleyball Tournament. These experiences give students the opportunity to build relationships, have fun, and adjust to campus before classes begin.
• Mentorship Program: Dunn Scholars have multiple opportunities to be mentored or to serve as a mentor. The Rookie and Captain program pairs first-year "Rookies" and second year "Captains," helping new scholars transition into college while building connection. A highlight for this mentorship program is our annual DSWS Draft, where Rookies are "drafted" by their Captains in a fun, celebratory event that kicks off a year of mentorship and community.    
• Weekly Meetings: Dunn Scholars attend regular meetings that provide community connection, professional development, and help students complete their semesterly DSWS Wellness Menus. Throughout the semester, guest speakers from the Columbus area share professional advice, internship insight, and provide networking opportunities. Meetings also include wellness workshops led by Leadership Council Representatives, helping scholars engage with the 10 Dimensions of Wellness and reinforce the program's focus on personal wellbeing.
• DSWS Themed Socials: Halloween, Valentines, and the End of Semester socials offer scholars with time to connect, celebrate, and decompress from the business of their academics.
• Sports Tournaments and Intramurals: Throughout the year, Dunn Scholars have the opportunity to participate in DSWS exclusive sporting tournaments, enjoying friendly competition and the chance to win DSWS gear. Many scholars also join the Scholars Intramural League, competing in sports such as flag football, softball, volleyball, basketball, and soccer.
• Columbus Sporting Events: Each semester, the Dunn Scholars offer opportunities for students to attend Columbus Blue Jackets, Columbus Clippers, Columbus Crew, and Columbus Fury games together.
• Second Year Graduation: This culminating event honors second-year students and their achievements during their time as active members of the Dunn Scholars program. 

The majority of our DSWS events are held in the Recreational & Physical Activity Center (RPAC) and Women's Field House, both a short walk from Morrill Tower. These events include our Welcome Week programs, Leadership Council, DSWS Socials, and other professional and social events.

Our Rookie and Captain program pairs first-year "Rookies" with second year "Captains," creating built-in support as new scholars transition into college. Not only does the program foster connection and community but also provides second-year scholars with the opportunity to lead and mentor their first year "rookie". 

The DSWS Leadership Council (LC) is a student-led group dedicated to creating opportunities for Dunn Scholars to connect, grow, and complete their semesterly Wellness Menus. LC members plan and facilitate events, workshops, and initiates to strengthen the community and wellbeing of the program.

• The council is organized into different committees - Intramural, Social, Volunteer, Health and Wellness, BuckeyeThon, and First Year Reps. Each committee is responsible for developing events and projects in their focus area and supporting other committees.

Community service is an important part of the Dunn Scholars experience. The Volunteer Committee helps organize service events throughout the year and share additional opportunities for scholars to earn their volunteer hours. Many of the events are completed as a group, allowing students to continue building a sense of community while making an impact on the OSU campus and Columbus.