JOHNSON SOCIAL INNOVATION INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Founded by Mark and Laura Estenson Johnson ‘82

The Johnson Social Innovation Internship program, founded by Mark and Laura Estenson Johnson ’82, is modeled after the successful Wallace J. Estenson Entrepreneurial Internship program, also created by the Johnsons in 1996.  Two St Olaf students will have the opportunity to design and develop innovative and resourceful approaches to addressing social problems in the Twin Cities area.  The Johnson Social Innovators will be immersed in real-life problems within the social sector.  Students will propose a socially innovative plan that can be implemented within an existing organization or may require a start-up venture of their own.  Mentoring and networking by experts within the field of social entrepreneurship and nonprofit management will be invaluable to the interns throughout their summer experience and beyond.

The program is available to rising juniors and seniors and takes place from June 1 through August 31.  A stipend of $5000 will be awarded to the intern upon completion of their work.  In addition, a summer tuition credit of $1000 will be provided. 

Eligibility Requirements

  • St Olaf student returning to campus for 2009 Fall Semester
  • Desire to be immersed in real-life problems within the social sector
  • Ability to think creatively and critically in implementing a plan that addresses root causes of a social need
  • Desire to gain entrepreneurial skills, leadership development, networking opportunities, and new venture creation experience
  • Passion for making a difference and developing a lifetime commitment to service

Application

All items must be included for your application to be considered:

  • Cover letter, addressed to Mark and Laura Estenson Johnson;
  • Resume; and
  • Completed application form

Completed applications, with all supporting materials, must be submitted to OleRecruiting by February 20, 2009.

In addition, a faculty letter of recommendation must be sent to Kris Estenson, Coordinator of Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Center for Experiential Learning by February 20.  The letters should be sent by the faculty member either through the campus mail, or submitted electronically to estensok@stolaf.edu.

Steps for Applying

Login to OleRecruiting
To upload your resume, cover letter and application, select Documents from the tool bar, and Upload a Document.

Upload each document separately.  Your application can be uploaded as “other”.
Apply for the position by selecting “Internship”.  Type in “Johnson” for the position.
Johnson Social Innovation will be displayed
Scroll to the bottom of the screen and select “apply”

Questions regarding the Johnson Social Innovation Internship program should be directed to Kris Estenson, x3625 estensok@stolaf.edu, Coordinator of Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship in the Center for Experiential Learning.

Award Amount

$5000 per recipient
$1000 per summer tuition credit