Call for Applications: MSUFCU RCAH Dean’s Choice Award for Innovations in Civic Engagement

October 9, 2017

Call for Applications
MSUFCU RCAH Dean’s Choice Award for Innovations in Civic Engagement 
LETTER/EMAIL OF INQUIRY DEADLINE: Friday, November 10, 2017

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Thursday, November 30, 2017

The RCAH is excited to announce that it is now accepting letters of inquiry for the 6th Annual MSUFCU RCAH Dean’s Choice Award for Innovations in Civic Engagement. This prestigious award recognizes a student or group of students who foster innovation using the arts and humanities in community settings. A $2500 prize will be shared by the student(s) who has engaged with communities using initiative, collaboration, and innovative arts and humanities practices in alignment with the RCAH civic engagement model and the RCAH’s mission to create a better world.* For information on the interests the RCAH has in civic engagement, including information on the RCAH civic engagement model, see our website: http://www.rcah.msu.edu/student-life/civic-engagement

All current RCAH students who have completed or are working on a civic engagement project that will be completed by May 31^st, 2018 are eligible for this award. Civic engagement initiatives do not have to be part of the 292B/C sequence (though, those that are part of the sequence will certainly be welcome) and collaborative project applications are welcome! The initial one-page letter or email of inquiry is due Friday, November 10, 2017. It should include a description of the civic engagement initiative that describes why it is innovative and clearly articulates the student(s) role in the initiative. Please include all student names, contact phone numbers, and email addresses. Initial Letters of Inquiry will be reviewed by an RCAH committee using the following criteria:

·       Is the student initiative innovative – does it come up with a creative solution to a complex problem or successfully apply an existing idea in a new social context?

·       Does it address a problem related to diversity, social justice, inequity, power and privilege, or opportunity?

·       Does it reflect RCAH and MSU values of inclusivity, engagement, and collaboration?

·       Does it utilize learning in the arts and humanities and the RCAH’s model of civic engagement? 

·       Does it support RCAH community partnerships or forge new projects consistent with the RCAH’s interest in civic engagement?

Several letters of inquiry will be selected to receive college technical assistance in the development of formal applications, due by end of day on Thursday, November 30, 2017. The winner (or group of collaborative winners) will share a $2500 prize and be publicly recognized by MSUFCU and the RCAH.

Two information/proposal workshop sessions will be held for the applicants selected for final submissions. These will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2017 from 3-4 PM and on Friday, November 17, 2017 from 3-4 PM. Location to be announced.

Questions about the award or the application/selection process should be directed to Prof. Chris Scales, Chair of the RCAH Scholarships and Awards Committee (office: C320J Snyder Hall, email: scalesch@msu.edu). Letters or emails of Inquiry should be submitted electronically to Dawn Janetzke at janetzk7@msu.edu. Please indicate that you are submitting an application for the MSUFCU RCAH Dean’s Choice Award for Innovations in Civic Engagement. Letters of Inquiry are due by end of day on Friday, November 10, 2017.

We are grateful to MSUFCU for promoting the RCAH’s emphasis on the arts and humanities, civic engagement, diversity, and social justice; encouraging student initiative and innovation; fostering the creative application of student learning; and supporting community partnerships. We encourage you to consider applying for this prestigious award!

*Receipt of this grant may change the composition of a student’s financial aid package.