Dumbach Scholars

A Call to the Magis

The Dumbach Scholars is an enrichment program designed to enhance the curriculum of Loyola’s most gifted and motivated students.  Created in 1984, the Dumbach Scholars program has helped to prepare Loyola graduates for admission to the finest universities in the world.  The Program is grounded in the Great Books Foundation’s Shared Inquiry method.  Worthy of its Jesuit ideals, the Program calls students to approach their studies as Renaissance learners, to maximize the use of their talents, and to actively serve others in need of those talents.

If you have additional questions about the Dumbach Scholars Program, please contact Peter McNulty, Program Director, at pmcnulty@loy.org

Program Overview

Criteria for Admission

Students may apply for admission to the Dumbach Scholars near the end of their first semester of freshman year.  Candidates must have an un-weighted grade average of 90% or better, they must be enrolled in at least four honors level courses for the sophomore year, and they must complete an extensive application process. 

The Dumbach Portfolio

Throughout their three years in the program, and with the help of their Mentor, Dumbachs are required to submit artifacts of their work along with reflections to comprise a portfolio for submission with their college admission applications.

Interdisciplinary Field Trips

Throughout the school year, the Dumbach Scholars attend field trips offered only to participants in the program. Students enjoy visits to the Chicago Symphony, the Chicago Jazz Ensemble, and the Joffrey Ballet in small groups each month.  Other field trips have included an architectural tour of Chicago, a visit backstage at the Lyric Opera, and various other cultural events appearing in the Chicago area.  The Program also invites guest speakers to address the Dumbachs at Loyola on topics ranging from acts of heroism to crises of social justice.

The Dumbach Curriculum:

Dumbach Scholars attend their classes along with students that are not participating in the program.  They must maintain a 90% un-weighted grade average and be enrolled in four honors or AP level classes.  The table below offers a sample course load for a Dumbach Scholar.

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