The Nelson Institute for Diplomacy and International Affairs invites proposals for a two-year grant that will fund interdisciplinary faculty-student research projects that address a global issue of broad public importance. The purpose of this initiative is to enhance Drake’s involvement in addressing pressing global issues, thus helping to position Drake as a global knowledge hub in service to local, national, and international communities.

Over the past three years, the Nelson Institute has funded the following projects:

• Assessing, collaborating, and empowering to improve water quality in rural Uganda
• Transnational Des Moines: Reframing Des Moines immigrant and refugee narratives through collaborative research with youth
• Drake’s presence in the Toledo District of Southern Belize: Maximizing our impact while minimizing our footprint

One project will be funded from July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2020. The deadline for proposals is May 4. Proposals should be sent to Denise Ganpat at denise.ganpat@drake.edu. Award notification will occur by June 1. Teams are encouraged to consult with Jeffrey Kappen, assistant professor of international business and interim director of the Nelson Institute, at jeffrey.kappen@drake.edu, as they prepare their proposals. The Nelson Institute will provide $20,000–$30,000 in support of the selected project, depending upon demonstrated need. Project leaders are encouraged, if necessary, to seek additional funding from on- and off-campus sources. View the full call for proposals and criteria.

— Denise Ganpat, Provost’s Office