August 9, 2017
University of Houston Undergrads to Receive Support for Research
Photo courtesy of the University of Houston
$500K Mellon Foundation Grant Aims to Strengthen Scholarship in the Humanities
The University of Houston has received a $500,000 grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to establish an undergraduate research program in the humanities.
In addition to supporting new and innovative programs and opportunities at the undergraduate level, the Mellon Foundation grant is expected to increase the number of underrepresented and other students who enter doctoral programs at the university and other Tier One institutions.
The Mellon Research Scholars Program at the University of Houston will support the undergraduate research initiatives of 60 underrepresented and other undergraduate juniors and seniors. The Mellon Scholars will work one-on-one with faculty mentors outside the classroom on independent research projects. The program is designed to help students develop critical thinking and writing skills and will also provide professional development opportunities, enhancing competitiveness for top graduate schools, national and international scholarships, and eventual job placement.
“I am grateful to the Mellon Foundation for their tremendous commitment to our diverse student body,” said Eloise Dunn Brice, vice chancellor/vice president for university advancement. “Expanding undergraduate research is key to our mission as a Carnegie-designated Tier One research university, and this gift will actively support underrepresented students in the humanities.”