The Advancing Community, Democracy, and Dialogue (CDD) grant selection committee has awarded over $70,000 to support 27 outstanding proposals from UMass Amherst faculty, students, and staff. These grants reflect the university’s commitment to fostering diverse discourse and open dialogue on critical global and domestic social issues.
Out of 38 proposals received, 27 were selected for funding. The recipients include 12 faculty members, 7 staff members, 3 undergraduate students, and 5 graduate students.
The funded projects address a wide range of topics and formats. Highlights include:
- A 3-part series primarily for the faculty and staff of the School of Public Health & Health Sciences to learn how to harness the power of play to improve well-being and connection.
- An initiative to bring a faculty member or academic librarian from Gaza to campus, offering a platform to share scholarly work and lived experiences.
- Explorations into technology’s societal impact, such as “Beyond the Algorithm: How Humanities Students Can Shape the Future of AI” and “Ethical GIS in the Algorithmic Society.”
- A People’s Supper hosted by the Fine Arts Center and Diversity Education and Training, using the art of Laylah Ali to facilitate challenging conversations and promote compassion.
These initiatives exemplify the creative and impactful ways our community fosters dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity. For a full list and descriptions of all funded projects, please visit the CDD website.
These grants are a cornerstone of Chancellor Javier Reyes’ Community, Democracy, and Dialogue initiative, which seeks to create spaces for inclusive dialogue and thoughtful engagement with complex topics. The initiative is guided by the CDD advisory working group, comprising faculty, staff, and campus leaders, in consultation with graduate and undergraduate student representatives.
As we navigate global challenges and approach a new election cycle, the work of the CDD becomes even more vital. Our vision is to sustain and expand support for respectful dialogue and inquiry, ensuring UMass Amherst remains a vibrant community where free speech thrives and diverse perspectives are celebrated.
Congratulations to all the grant recipients, and thank you to the UMass Amherst community for your continued dedication to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.