After nearly a decade of existence, the Smittcamp Family Honors College is recognized as one of the top programs of its kind in the Western United States. One of California's leading honors programs, the college has given rise to the dynamic atmosphere of a liberal arts college or private research institute, all within the context of a large public research university. These qualities are built on a deep history of entrepreneurial character drawn from the legacy of its founders, Earl and Muriel Smittcamp, whose legacy of integrity and success has left an indelible mark on the Central San Joaquin Valley. Its research and teaching stress interdisciplinary approaches to problem solving. Areas of excellence range from the humanities to social sciences to engineering and the sciences. With a full tuition scholarship and access to the full extent of academic resources, Smittcamp Scholars are able to thrive within California's central Valley, which is a short leap from some of the most intellectually dynamic and culturally prosperous areas of the nation.