Kenneth J. Konyndyk, Jr. Scholarship

Kenneth J. Konyndyk, Jr. taught in the Philosophy Department at Calvin for 27 years (1967-1994), until his life’s work was cut short by cancer. His career was characterized by professional scholarship, commitment to teaching, and a genuine interest in his students. Professor Konyndyk also played an instrumental role in the founding of the Society of Christian Philosophers which grew from a small group in 1978 to over 1,000 members in 1994. He lived his life, carried on his professional scholarship, and invested himself in teaching, committed to the integration of his faith with learning. To honor and recognize Kenneth Konyndyk’s deep appreciation for Calvin, his love of philosophy, and his years of committed service to the college, his family established this scholarship to encourage young people who are majoring in philosophy and strengthen their vision of teaching philosophy as a Christian vocation.

Basic criteria:

• entering junior or senior year
• cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher
• pursuing a major in philosophy
• first preference is for a student interested in teaching and scholarship in philosophy as a Christian calling; students majoring in philosophy or double-majoring in philosophy and another discipline may be considered if they demonstrate the relevance of their training in philosophy for graduate study in other fields
• financial need is not required

Renewal criteria: Students who wish to be considered for renewal must file a new application each year and will be given equal consideration with other candidates.