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Boone Honors program

A mock dictionary definition for Boone / Boon. A noun, a president emeritus of Ferrum College, Dr. Jerry Boone, serving from 1987 to 2002. Founder of the Boone Honors Program. a thing that is helpful or beneficial. a benefit, favor, or blessing. a Ferrum College Honor Student. especially: one embodying “Not Self, But Others”. see also: scholar, asset, selfless, leader

What Does it mean to be A Boone Honors scholar?

Being a Boone Honors scholar means you have proven yourself exemplary among your peers. You have shown that you possess an intellectual appetite, a diligent work ethic, a curious mind, and a selfless spirit. You are a scholar at heart and a boon to this institution and community.

How will Joining the Boone honors progam challenge and support me?

The Boone Honors program encourages you to challenge yourself, to grow, and to see where your gifts can take you. It inspires you to embody the Ferrum College motto, “Not Self, but Others,” to be a leader and a role model, and to stand up and stand out.

Members of the program address complex, real-world questions in interdisciplinary honors seminars and learn as a part of a supportive community. They work closely with professors, present research at conferences, enjoy dinners with special campus guests and speakers, and receive recognition during commencement. Moreover, honors students work closely with faculty in their junior and senior years to curate a professional portfolio that supports strong applications for careers or graduate schools.

Honors Program BENEFITS

There are many benefits to being a Boone Honors scholar at Ferrum College:

  • General education requirements fulfilled by interdisciplinary seminars
  • Cohort-based learning community
  • Work closely with professors in courses within major or minor
  • Enhanced advising opportunities
  • Present research at conferences
  • Attend dinners with visiting guests and speakers
  • Participate in special honors social activities and trips
  • Eligible to receive up to $3,000 in travel scholarship for a study-abroad experience

How can I become a Boone honors scholar?

Boone Honors scholars undergo a competitive and rigorous selection process befitting this distinguished academic community.

Applications for the Boone Honors Program for 2025 are now closed.

Interested students are encouraged to check back as applications for the Fall 2026 program enrollment will reopen in November.

NOTE: Honors scholarships are not guaranteed for students admitted to the program after the priority deadline. 

Study-Abroad Opportunities

Every student in the program is encouraged to study abroad and is eligible to receive up to $3,000 in travel scholarship funds for this purpose. Many honors students elect to fulfill this requirement during the summer, although opportunities for semester-long study abroad are also possible. Honors students have studied abroad in England (Oxford), China, South Africa, Austria, Belize, and Honduras, among other locations.

Ferrum College students standing outside behind a structure in Italy.
Boone Honors students sit around a dinner table with two advisors.

Course Rotation

  • Every Fall
    • HON-100 Honors Seminar
  • Every Spring
    • HON-435 Values and Vocation (Required Capstone)
  • Fall, Even Years
    • HON-211 Surrealism In Art, Lit & Film
    • HON-222 Political Psychology
    • HON-280/COM-369 Mass Media & Behavior
  • Fall, Odd Years
    • HON-205 Decisions & Problem Solving with Math
    • HON-230/REL-210 American Gods
  • Spring, Even Years
    • HON-200 The World & the Arts
    • HON-215 Science and Art (4 credits)
  • Spring, Odd Years
    • HON-216 The Sixties
    • HON-217 Science Literacy
    • HON-223 Political Satire
    • HON-225 Religion & Science

Honors Residential Community

First-year honors students are typically housed in Roberts Hall, conveniently located at the center of campus, and enjoy unique social activities, trips, and off-campus excursions.

overview of roberts hall behind tree with red and orange leaves

History of The Program

The Boone Honors Program (BHP) at Ferrum College was developed in 2002 by Dr. David Howell, Williams Endowed Professor of Humanities, Professor of Religion, and Director of Faculty Development. Dr. Howell served as the program’s first director until 2007.

The program is named after Dr. Jerry Boone, who was the president of Ferrum College from 1987 to 2002, and Mrs. Shirley Boone. You can find references in honor of the program’s namesakes in some of the program’s symbolism and graphics, such as a pair of glasses like those worn by Dr. Boone.

Directors in the history of the Boone Honors Program:

  • 2002: Dr. David Howell develops the program.
  • 2007–2024: Dr. Lana Whited directs the program.
  • 2024-2025: Dr. Dan Murphy is the third director. 
  • 2025: Dr. Lana Whited becomes interim program director.
  • 2026: Dr. Dan Caston becomes program director, with Dr. Nancy Brubaker as assistant director.

want to learn more?

Contact the Director of the Boone Honors Program, Dr. Dan Caston

Contact Info

Address:
Box 1000, Ferrum College, Ferrum, VA 24088

Ferrum College
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