Dialogue Across Difference Mini-Grant Program for Students
University Life is pleased to announce the launch of a mini-grant program for students to promote the goal of the Dialogue Across Difference initiative, which is to foster a resilient and inclusive community of learners who can engage with diverse perspectives and navigate challenging conversations with a shared commitment to mutual understanding and respect.
Projects supported by this program will be led by currently enrolled students and open to all students from across the University. Projects should provide tools, frameworks, or models that promote constructive dialogue or provide forums that model dialogue across divergent perspectives. Format possibilities include workshops, panel discussions, AI simulations, symposia, artistic events, skill-building opportunities, etc.
Grantees will be featured on University Life's website, social media and will receive support in planning and marketing their funded events and/or programs. They will also be invited to participate in an end-of-year roundtable event open to all students.
Deadline to apply: Friday, February 16, 2024.
Awards will range from $50 to $1,500. Notifications will be made by early March.
Project Eligibility, Requirements, and Restrictions
- Students currently enrolled in one of Columbia’s 17 schools are eligible to apply
- Students from affiliate schools are not eligible to apply as the primary recipient, however, they can be part of a group that includes students from Columbia’s 17 schools. Students from Columbia’s schools should be the lead applicant(s). Affiliate schools include:
- Union Theological Seminary
- Jewish Theological Seminary
- Barnard College
- Teachers College
- Projects must be student-initiated and completed by April 29, 2024.
- Existing projects will be considered.
- Candidates may apply individually or as a team
In order to receive funding through this program, your project should:
- Address the goal of the program (see above)
- Focus on the Columbia University community
- Be free and open to all Columbia students (if an event)
- All event-related projects must receive a review, in which University Life staff and other campus partners will evaluate the details of the proposed student event to ensure proper coordination and planning.
- Funding may not be used for groceries, catering or other food expenses.
- Funding may not be used to compensate current Columbia students (including recipients), staff, or faculty members
- At the end of the project, awardees will be asked to submit a brief final report about project outcomes, how funds were used and how many students participated. We will share a form with awardees.
- A committee of student affairs professionals from across the University will review the applications and make recommendations to the Provost.
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in this program. Applications are now open and will close on Friday, February 16, 2024.
Questions? Contact Ixchel Rosal at [email protected].
We look forward to the creative ways Columbia students will offer to advance the University’s commitment to constructive dialogue across difference.