Graduate students in the School of Social Sciences are advancing research that shapes public policy, strengthens communities, and deepens our understanding of human behavior. The most critical stage of that work comes at the very end, when students complete their dissertations and prepare to launch their careers.
As shifts in federal research funding create new uncertainty for doctoral students, even the strongest scholars can face unexpected funding gaps at the final stage of their research. When that happens, years of rigorous scholarship can slow, not because the work lacks merit, but because traditional funding pathways evolve or become more competitive.
The School of Social Sciences is stepping forward to ensure that momentum is not lost.
With leadership from the Dean’s Leadership Society (DLS) and partnership from several of our research centers, the School has launched the DLS Dissertation Research Fellowships, which provide timely, flexible support to graduate students nearing completion of their work. These fellowships ensure that promising research continues at the most critical stage.
This initiative does more than bridge a funding gap. It:
- Protects years of dedicated research
- Keeps promising graduate scholars on track for timely degree completion
- Preserves the grant-writing and peer-review experience essential to professional development
- Strengthens our ability to attract and retain exceptional doctoral talent
Giving Day support helps ensure that promising research does not stall at the final mile.
Your gift safeguards years of scholarship and ensures that funding uncertainty does not define the trajectory of our most promising scholars. Together, we can advance the future of social science research and invest in the next generation of leaders.
Every gift makes an immediate impact.
Donors who contribute $1,500 or more will be recognized as members of the Dean’s Leadership Society (DLS)—a distinguished group of supporters committed to advancing the School of Social Sciences. DLS members engage more deeply with faculty and leadership through exclusive programs and events throughout the year.
If you have already made a gift, thank you for your support. If not, we invite you to make your Giving Day gift today.
| Rank | State | Gifts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CA | 60 |
| 2 | FL | 1 |
| 2 | PA | 1 |
