Red Cross Collegiate Leadership Program
Scholarship Sponsored by American Red Cross
Program Summary
The Red Cross Collegiate Leadership Program recruits college students for an immersive leadership experience that combines training, mentoring and practical service. The Class of 2027 program includes a two-week residency at American Red Cross Headquarters in Washington, D.C., followed by on-campus activities to organize blood drives and build local volunteer networks. Participants develop leadership skills, professional connections, and a sustained campus impact through organized Red Cross activities. Applications are currently being accepted for the Class of 2027 cohort.
Description: A campus-focused leadership program that begins with two weeks of intensive training in Washington, D.C., and continues with students leading blood drives and Red Cross activities on their campuses.
- Intensive two-week training and ongoing campus leadership
- Focus on organizing blood drives and building volunteer networks
- Open to selected college students for Class of 2027
Overview
The Collegiate Leadership Program situates students within a longstanding Red Cross tradition of youth leadership and community service. Participants learn to inspire new volunteers, champion philanthropic causes, and make measurable contributions to local communities. The program emphasizes practical leadership through mentoring, training, and networking opportunities. Graduates return to campus equipped to lead sustained Red Cross activities.
Eligibility: The program is designed for students who will serve as campus leaders organizing Red Cross activities; selection is limited and competitive.
- Develops leadership through practical, service-oriented work
- Emphasizes mentoring and professional networking
- Targets students committed to sustaining campus programs
Program Benefits
Participants receive financial support, comprehensive training, and logistical coverage to attend the Washington, D.C. residency. The program covers roundtrip transportation, room, board, and provides a stipend in addition to the scholarship. Beyond financial and logistical support, students gain experience organizing high-impact blood drives that directly contribute to local and national lifesaving efforts. The residency also offers opportunities for mentorship and expanded professional networks.
Award Value: Participating students receive a $3,000 scholarship, plus roundtrip transportation to Washington, D.C., room, board, and a stipend to support participation.
- $3,000 scholarship awarded to each participant
- Travel, housing, meals, and stipend provided for the residency
- Hands-on experience organizing blood drives that save lives
Participant Commitments
Selected students must attend the full two-week training in Washington, D.C., and then execute a program of Red Cross activities on their campus. Participants are expected to organize and market blood drives, serve throughout their remaining academic years, and identify a successor to continue the work after graduation. Institutions that host participants should support and recognize student efforts, including formation of a Red Cross Club if pursued. These commitments ensure continuity and sustained campus impact beyond the residency.
Expectations: Full attendance at the D.C. residency, active leadership organizing campus blood drives, multi-year service, and succession planning.
- Attend two-week residency in Washington, D.C.
- Organize and promote campus blood drives and activities
- Commit to ongoing service and identify a successor
Application Instructions
Carefully review all questions before beginning the application; only complete submissions will be accepted. Applicants must upload a signed Student Leader Agreement Form, an unofficial transcript, and a resume. Applications missing required signatures or documents will not be accepted. Pay attention to the application deadline and required materials to ensure your submission is considered.
Application Timeline: Apply by the December due date; accepted students will be notified by early 2027. The residency dates are June 7–18, 2027, with travel accommodated June 6 and June 19.
- Submit a complete application with all required uploads
- Include signed Student Leader Agreement, unofficial transcript, and resume
- Apply by the December deadline; residency runs June 7–18, 2027
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the American Red Cross and selected applicants will be invited to phone interviews. Final selections are communicated by early 2027 following the interview process. The program accepts only one student per school, so applicants should confirm institutional endorsement before applying. Selection focuses on leadership potential, commitment to sustained campus impact, and the ability to execute successful blood drives.
Selection: Applications are screened, interviews are conducted by phone, and notifications are sent in early 2027; only one student per school will be accepted.
- Application review followed by phone interviews
- Notifications issued by early 2027
- Program policy: one student accepted per institution