Jakob Highducheck (pictured) is one of 20 scholars nationwide to be selected as a Key into Public Service Scholar by the Phi Beta Kappa Society, the nation’s most prestigious academic honor society and a leading national advocate for the value of liberal arts and sciences education. Drawing inspiration from many notable Phi Beta Kappa members who have shaped the course of the country, the program recognizes exceptional arts and sciences students with a demonstrated interest in pursuing careers in local, state and federal government.
Highducheck, a rising third-year student in the College of Charleston Honors College from Inman, South Carolina, was chosen from over 800 applicants attending Phi Beta Kappa chapter institutions nationwide. He will receive a $5,000 undergraduate scholarship and participate in an educational conference in Washington, D.C., which provides invaluable training, mentorship and opportunities for reflection on pathways to active citizenship.
Alumni of the program have earned prestigious honors, including Rhodes, Truman, Marshall, Fulbright and Obama-Chesky Voyager scholarships.
“Now is a critical time to highlight both the value of arts and sciences education and its application in public service careers to the benefit of the common good,” says Frederick Lawrence, Phi Beta Kappa secretary and CEO. “The society applauds the Class of 2025 Service Scholars for their intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary depth, leadership and service to others.”
Highducheck, a double major in biology and environmental and sustainability studies, is deeply interested in the intersection of science, storytelling and public service, and is a Charleston Fellow and a Bonner Leader. Last summer, he was selected to explore international approaches to environmental leadership, policy and communication at the University of Exeter’s Institute of Global Sustainability through the Fulbright U.S.–UK Summer Institutes program. And, as a programs intern with the Charleston Waterkeeper, he conducts water quality research, supports microplastic pollution analysis, contributes to educational outreach and creates digital outreach materials to engage the public in local environmental issues.
Highducheck is also a filmmaker, directing First Gen, a documentary highlighting the experiences of first-generation college students. After identifying gaps in institutional support, he developed the film to share these students’ stories with an administrative audience, ultimately inspiring the College to create a First-Generation Hub initiative.
After graduation, he plans to pursue a graduate degree in environmental science, biology or science communication.