Bigs on Campus

Bigs on Campus is a twice-monthly mentoring program that takes place at St. Cloud State University, the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, and, as of Fall 2023, St. Cloud Technical & Community College. Matches spend their time together (on-campus only) exploring, attending events, participating in recreational activities, touring academic departments, and more!

Developed to open windows of opportunity for underserved communities and potential first-generation college students, Bigs on Campus welcomes students from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds to help them learn more about their options after high school. This mentoring initiative allows students who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to get on a college campus right here in Central Minnesota, explore future career, trade, or enlistment options, and learn from local professionals.

Thanks to Spanier Bus Service, Voigt's Bus Service, and Trobec's Bus Service, participating junior and senior high students are transported at no cost to the students from their schools to SCSU, CSB/SJU, and SCTCC.

WHO CAN VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR

  • Area business professionals
  • SCSU, SCTCC, and CSB/SJU staff, faculty and alumni
  • SCSU and CSB/SJU students

History
This program is named for the late Dr. Earl H. Potter III, former President of St. Cloud State University. He signed the partnership agreement without hesitation in May 2016 and tragically passed away in a car crash on June 13, 2016. His commitment to youth in our community, the BBBS program, and the Bigs on Campus initiative inspired us to name the program in his honor.

BIGS ON CAMPUS VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS

  • Commit to a minimum of 12 months after being matched
  • Attend volunteer informational session
  • Complete in-person/Zoom interview
  • Pass background checks and required references

 

Check out this video highlighting the Dr. Potter Bigs on Campus Initiative!

 

The 2022-23 school year marked the seventh year of the Dr. Potter Bigs on Campus Initiative at St. Cloud State University, and matches and staff marked the end of the year with a lunchtime celebration on the SCSU campus (left). As the SCSU initiative was celebrating its seventh year, BBBS of Central Minnesota brought the initiative to the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University for the first time in 2022-23, and wrapped up the school year with five matches (right).

Ready to defend potential?

1. Inquire Now!

Fill out some basic information so we can help get you started today!

2. Complete a self-paced Information Session

A link to the information session will be sent to you.

3. Complete an application

An application will be sent to you.

4. Complete an interview

The interview can be in-person or virtually, and will be scheduled after your application is received.