Special Project Program Information Heading link

The Student Affairs Special Project Fellows Program allows Student Affairs staff to start a new program or initiative or improve a current practice or service to better support student success and enhance the quality of campus life.

Note: This funding opportunity is currently paused while Student Affairs is actively working through the Curricular Approach. The content below is provided for informational purposes only.

Program Details

Fellows will engage in a project to start a new program or initiative or improve a current practice(s) in Student Affairs. Projects that are collaborative, particularly those that involve faculty, are encouraged, and priority will be given to projects with a clear plan for sustainability. All projects must include assessment. The expected outcome of the program is for staff to improve the programs, initiatives, and policies of Student Affairs at UIC and/or implement new programs and initiatives that support student learning and personal development.

Fellows will present the outcomes of their initiative, including assessment findings, at a Student Affairs’ symposium at the end of the program. Fellows will also participate in quarterly meetings to provide and receive peer support, including for planning or assessment.

Types of Projects

Fellows will engage in projects to create and launch new programs/initiatives under Student Affairs or improve current practices. Projects must be feasible and sustainable and must include assessment. Collaboration with staff from other departments across campus, including faculty, is highly encouraged.

Selection Process

There will be up to two Fellows selected for the current year of the program (2021-2022 academic year).

A committee consisting of the Assistant Vice Chancellor, one member of the Executive Leadership Team, one other Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs staff, and one staff member from an office outside of Student Affairs will review applications and decide whom to fund.

Applications will be judged based on feasibility, impact, collaboration, expertise, and the necessity of funds to move the project forward.

Resources

Selected Fellows will receive up to $25,000 to use to hire staff or consultants, and/or for program supplies, software, or any other expense necessary to launch the program/initiative or implement improvements. Up to $1,500 can be used towards presenting findings/outcomes of the initiative at a conference. Since this is a one-time funding opportunity, Fellows must have a sustainability plan for any ongoing costs after the program ends, including maintaining new staff positions.

As needed, Fellows will also receive assessment and planning support.

Timeline

  • August 2, 2021: Program is announced, and applications are solicited.
  • September 15, 2021: Program applications are due.
  • September 30, 2021: Fellows are notified. Projects can start immediately, but should no later than November 1, 2021. Projects should be completed within a year.
  • Spring 2022: Project presentations.

Questions? Contact Sue Farruggia, spf@uic.edu.