Graue Scholars

The Graue Scholars Program: Shaping future business leaders  

The Graue Scholars Program is a scholarship and honors experience awarded by the University of Idaho’s College of Business and Economics. Graue scholars have the opportunity to grow personally, professionally and intellectually. This immersive experience includes annual corporate visits, networking events with industry leaders and leadership retreats that help you build the skills employers value most.

Graue Scholars are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential and character. As both a scholarship and a developmental program, it offers an immersive experience that extends beyond the classroom — emphasizing professional growth, leadership development and community engagement. Graue Scholars become part of a dynamic community of motivated peers committed to making a meaningful impact in business and society. 

Foundation for success

As a Graue Scholar, you'll work closely with a faculty advisor to sharpen your leadership abilities, broaden your knowledge and make meaningful connections that will serve you in your future career. You’ll also have the chance to join the Dean’s Student Advisory Board for the College of Business and Economics (CBE), where you’ll represent your peers and advocate for student interests.

In addition to your academic and leadership growth, Graue Scholars get involved in making a difference on campus. Whether it’s volunteering to raise food for U of I’s food pantries, hosting events for fellow students or writing the names of graduating seniors on the J.A. Albertson atrium windows, you’ll experience firsthand how leadership extends beyond the classroom.

Graue Scholars come from all majors within CBE, and the networking and experiential learning opportunities continue to benefit you throughout your academic journey and future career.

The program is built on four core pillars that provide a unique experience for students.

• Academic excellence: Academic excellence is a core pillar of our program. Graue Scholars are required to maintain a 3.5 GPA, demonstrating their commitment to high academic standards. Graue students are expected to be leaders in the classroom, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and peer collaboration. They are not just high academic achieving students; they are proactive learners with a drive to excel.  
• Professional development: Through networking trips, Graue Scholars gain unparalleled access to companies and industries across the country, graduating with a deep understanding of professional etiquette and a valuable network. This hands-on experience ensures members are ready for the real world, making them valuable assets to any organization.
• Leadership and mentorship: Our student-led committees and formal mentorship program offer hands-on experience, allowing members to develop their leadership style while learning from experienced students and established professionals.
• Community impact: Graue Scholars give back to the college and the wider community through volunteering, acting as ambassadors for the University of Idaho and the College of Business and Economics. Our students are driven by a desire to contribute positively.

See directly from the perspective of current students in their annual newsletter.

How can you get involved?

Each year, high-achieving CBE students are invited to join the Graue Scholars Program, a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth.

If you have any questions, please email cbe@uidaho.edu

Excellence: The History of the Graue Scholars Program

The Graue Scholars Program was founded in honor of Erwin Graue, a beloved and influential professor who taught at University of Idaho's College of Business and Economics from 1928 to 1965. Known to many of his students as a strict and demanding professor, Graue was also described as caring and deeply invested in his students' success. He held them to high standards because he believed in their potential.

Thanks to generous donations from friends of the CBE after his passing, the Graue Scholars Program was founded to honor his legacy. Today, the program continues to embody the dedication and high standards that Graue valued, shaping a new generation of leaders.