Business for Humanity program

Augustana business administration majors can opt to enroll in the Business for Humanity (previously Business Education Steeped in the Liberal Arts) scholars program. The first cohort will start in Fall 2025.

Built upon the strengths of Augustana's liberal arts education, the program is designed to enhance career, vocational reflection and graduates' contributions to the common good. The program aims to not only prepare students for the workforce, but also equip them to think critically, communicate effectively, and reflect on the meaning and purpose of their careers and contributions to their communities.

Business administration majors enrolling in Business for Humanity will engage in:

• Pursuing a second major or minor from the traditional liberal arts disciplines, such as English, religion, political science, art or music
• Devoting a portion of their general education requirement to courses tailored to the intersection of career, calling, happiness, industry and living good lives
• Participating in co-curricular activities with mentors from local business and non-profit organizations

The program takes inspiration from the Sheedy Family Program in Economy, Enterprise and Society at the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Chris Hedlin '11, who teaches and co-directs the selective, cohort-based Sheedy program, is consulting on Augustana’s Business for Humanity program.

How to apply

Applications have closed for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Requirements for Business for Humanity program consideration:

1. Enrollment in Business Program: Major in Business Administration or International Business and/or minor in Not-for-Profit Leadership Development and/or Entrepreneurial Studies.

2. Enrollment in non-Business Program*: A major or minor outside of Business Administration or International Business program

Note 1: Intention to declare is sufficient for your application. If accepted into the Business for Humanity program, confirmation of enrollment in both a Business program and a non-Business program will be required to remain in the program.

Note 2: One goal of the Business for Humanity program is to ensure the program includes students from across the broad disciplinary offerings at Augustana.

3. Faculty or staff reference: Someone on Augustana's faculty or staff who would be willing to speak on your interest in the program and your abilities to contribute to and benefit from the program. A recommendation letter is unnecessary, but you will need to include their contact information in the application. You should also let them know you have shared their contact information and discuss your interest in the Business for Humanity program with them before you submit your application.

To learn more

If you have questions, please contact the directors of the Business for Humanity program, Dr. Amanda Baugous or Dr. Jason Mahn.

The Business for Humanity program is supported by the NetVUE grant and the Council of Independent Colleges and Lilly Endowment Inc.