The Ernest Houston Johnson Scholars Program

The 2025 -2026 EHJS application is open! Apply now. The application closes September 5th.

Apply for the Ernest Houston Johnson Scholars 2025-2026 cohort here

The Ernest Houston Johnson Scholars Program, typically referred to as EHJS, honors Ernest Houston Johnson, one of the first graduates of Stanford University and the first Black graduate in the pioneer class of 1895. Housed in the Black Community Services Center, this program for frosh is designed to ground curious minds in The Black House and University mission of research and academic exploration through community learning. Over the course of 3 quarters,  the cohort dives into the concept of Legacy and through guided research projects, community engagement initiatives, and near-peer mentorship, create their own working definition of legacy and map their path at Stanford and beyond. Scholars in EHJS have the unique experience of a small cohort learning model, workshops designed and led by graduate students, as well as exposure to world-renowned faculty and staff, networking with prominent alumni, and a leg up on fellowships, internships, and scholarships.

As a Legacy Scholar, students will be joining a network of intellectuals, whose talents and works that began at Stanford have gone on to have national and global impact. They will join the legacy of notable alumni such as the first black female astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison, ’75, television producer Yvette Lee Bowser, ’87, Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker, ’91, and media sensation Issa Rae ’07. The Black Community Services Center is committed to exposing students to the vast opportunities that Stanford has to offer and creating opportunities that will enhance their intellectual journey while supporting them as they come to understand the mark they wish to leave on the community.

Applications open shortly before the start of the incoming fall quarter. If you have questions about the EHJS program, please send us an email at stanfordbcsc@stanford.edu.