Office of Equity and Inclusion Seeking Proposals for Campus Climate Improvement Grants

The Office of Equity and Inclusion is accepting applications for 2023-24 Campus Climate Improvement Grants from March 1-17. Undergraduate and graduate students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to submit their proposals for projects that thoughtfully address challenges to climate and belonging, either locally or campus wide.

These grants, ranging from $250 to $2,500, are intended to support projects that help build community and create a more inclusive campus. Previously funded projects have included mentorship networks, film series, book clubs, workshops and trainings, art exhibits, lecture series, and more.

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“Since the launch of the Climate Improvement Grant initiative, we’ve seen community members thoughtfully come together to identify areas of improvement on campus and actively engage in creating positive change,” says Emmanuel Adero, deputy chief officer for Equity and Inclusion. “These grants have helped launch long term projects that have been impactful for the UMass community.”

Priority will be given to those proposals that clearly reflect the goals of the Campus Strategic Plan, that respond to inequities identified in Climate Survey Data, that are likely to yield sustained impact on the campus climate, and that involve members across the campus community. Special consideration will be given to projects that encourage participation and coordination between two or more areas, schools, departments, student organizations or groups.

The deadline for applications is Friday, March 17, end of day. Prior to application, prospective grantees must watch a short informational video to be eligible to apply, and then meet with Emmanuel Adero or Alaina Macaulay to discuss proposal parameters at one of the following times:

• Wednesday, March 1, office hours: https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/92301227214

• Tuesday, March 7, office hours: https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/92483042309

• Thursday, March 9, office hours: https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/97957122503

• Emmanuel's regular office hours are also available (Monday and Wednesday, 10-11 a.m.), or schedule a time to meet with Alaina (amacaulay@umass.edu), for those can't make the above dates.

Video, information session zoom links, and application can be found on the Equity and Inclusion website.