Applications due no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025
The College of Social Science invites applications for competitive awards under the Faculty Initiatives Fund (FIF). The FIF was established by Dr. Gwen Andrew, Professor and Dean Emeritus of the College of Social Science with the support of the College's faculty, staff, friends and alumni. The FIF is limited to tenure system faculty members holding primary appointments (51% or higher) in the College of Social Science and who have not received FIF funding during the past three years. The endowment recognizes and encourages the innovative and creative work of these faculty members.
The FIF promotes the production and dissemination of knowledge by supporting faculty development of new research/scholarly initiatives and the publication of "pioneering" works that otherwise would not find outlets among commercial publishers. Applications that represent pilot activities that will lead to proposals for external funding are particularly encouraged. A minimum match of $1,000 from the applicant’s unit is required. The maximum award request including match is $10,000. Up to five proposals are expected to be funded.
Applications for the FY 26 awards are due in the Dean’s Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025 (no time extension requests will be allowed). Proposals are limited to two pages (single-spaced, 11-point Arial or Times Roman font, one-inch margins. References, curriculum vitae, detailed budget and budget justification should be included as appendixes), and must clearly articulate methods, offer a concise statement of expected outcomes, and justify the use of this particular funding mechanism. A brief letter from the unit chair/director with a commitment for the required matching funds must accompany each application. Applications must be submitted electronically as a single PDF file by 5:00 p.m. November 24, 2025, to the Office of Research and Strategic Initiatives. All proposals will be evaluated in terms of (1) quality and technical merit; (2) impact of the project; (3) capability, productivity, experience of applicants; and (4) budget considerations.
Proposals will be reviewed by members of the College Research Committee and award recipients will be notified by Monday, December 22, 2025. All award decisions are final.
Instructions for accessing funds will be provided at the time of notification. Funds may be used for expenses related to the project as submitted, consistent with University Policy and Procedures, but may not be used for faculty salaries or conference travel and expenses. Any equipment valued at $500 or more purchased from these funds becomes the property of the University. A brief narrative and financial report are required within 12 months of the award date describing outcomes and plans for follow-up.
The scoring below indicates the priority score, descriptor and additional guidance on strengths/weaknesses.
Minor: easily addressable weakness that does not substantially lessen the impact of the project
Moderate: weakness that lessens the impact of the project
Major: weakness that severely limits the impact of the project