Core Principles for Curb Scholars



Core Principles for Curb ScholarsA Curb Scholar exercises their curatorial voice; they organize pieces of reality to create new meaning for others – through exhibitions, festivals, digital media, music compilations and written work.

A Curb Scholar uses creative expression and enterprise to advance the public good; Scholars employ their unique passion and creative energies to serve others, build community, address public problems, and mobilize others toward common goals.

A Curb Scholar understands the complexities of America’s cultural life. They are prepared to work as leaders in the intersection between government policy, law, private enterprise, and nonprofits.

A Curb Scholar is a catalyst and collaborator; Scholars thrive on bringing together diverse skill sets, perspectives and interests toward producing something novel and useful.

A Curb Scholar celebrates the process of discovery; they take risks, embrace messiness, tolerate ambiguity, and delight in surprise; Scholars invite people to co-create and participate in the unruliness of the creative process. .

A Curb Scholar has a deep appreciation of workmanship, design, craft and heritage in addition to valuing novelty and the unconventional.

The Mike Curb Undergraduate Scholar Program in Creative Enterprise and Public Leadership is defined by six core components:

Courses. Our program offers a range of courses that will build scholars’ understanding of the complex system of creative enterprise and expression in the U.S., and that will broaden and deepen their leadership skills and creative practice. 

Salons and Events. Our Creative Leaders Salon series and our Curb Center events will offer scholars the opportunity to engage with contemporary issues around creativity and culture, expressive life, leadership, enterprise and the public interest. 

One-on-one Interviews with Leaders and Entrepreneurs. Our Scholars will have the opportunity to interview leaders working in the private and public sectors--across design, media and cultural industries & institutions.

Summer Leadership Internship. Between their junior and senior years, scholars will participate in a summer internship in NYC and Washington DC.

Capstone Project. In their senior year, scholars will conceive of and bring forth a creative “work”—an entrepreneurial venture, documentary, or production--that serves both the public interest and contributes to the vitality of the community’s cultural life.