The CAPS Program was launched in 2010 with the goal of fostering a more diverse and inclusive community of science students at Colby. Initially funded by a grant from HHMI, it is now permanently endowed by a gift from Karen Linde Packman ’88, P’21 and Jeff Packman ’88, P’21.

  • CAPS Scholar Selection:  Ten students per year are selected for the CAPS Program during the Admissions process when they are identified as:
    • being members of groups historically excluded from the sciences, including first-generation college students,
    • having strong motivation for the pursuit of scientific study, but not necessarily coming from an education background that adequately prepared them for college science,
    • and demonstrating leadership and community-building potential.
  • Summer Program:  This distinctive and unique program brings a group of incoming students to Colby’s campus for mid-summer science programming before their first year.  Here, they build community with each other and with faculty and staff; participate in laboratory and field projects; and get to know the campus, the surrounding Waterville community, and the state of Maine in its summer glory.
  • Faculty-Driven:  This programming is designed and implemented by Colby science professors to arm students with tools, skills, and experiences to enhance preparedness for their first-year science courses.  
  • First Year and Beyond:  CAPS Scholars benefit from their participation in the program for their entire Colby careers and beyond.  They receive exceptional academic advising and career guidance throughout their four years, and they have access to a wide array of on-campus and off-campus science opportunities.
  • Success:  We are extraordinarily proud of our CAPS Scholars, many of whom have gone on to pursue careers in medicine, scientific research, pharmacy, science education, environmental policy, and more.  See what some of our CAPS ALUMNI are doing now!
  • Funding:  Originally funded by a $1M grant from HHMI, the program is now endowed through the generous support of Karen Linde Packman ’88 P’21  and Jeff Packman ’88 P’21.  
  • CAPS Graduation Ceremony:  This treasured tradition for our Scholars is the culmination of an extraordinary four-year adventure!  Video below: