Established in 1998 with generous gifts from the Springs Close Foundation, the Close Scholars Program supports the commitment of the Springs Close Foundation to give back to the communities of York, Lancaster, and Chester counties, as well as Winthrop's vision of enrolling "an achievement-oriented, culturally diverse and socially responsible student body." The idea that drives the Close Scholars Program is that service is vital to the complete education of college students because future leaders have a civic responsibility. Through the establishment of the Close Scholars Program, the Springs Close Foundation, together with Winthrop University, enables talented and committed students to develop the social consciousness and inner strength that comes from helping others, as well as a legacy with a rich yield to the greater community.
