The Community-Academic Scholars Program empowers undergraduate students as active collaborators in community-based research projects. For 10 weeks over the summer, they work full time with university mentors and community mentors on research projects designed to benefit communities served by the partner organization, such as refugees, veterans, aging adults, Black youth, LGBTQ+ communities, those living with food insecurity, and many others. From creating a culturally responsive STEM curriculum at DREAAM in Rantoul to evaluating how assistive robots can support aging adults, people with impairments, and those who care for them with Clark Lindsey Life Plan Community, scholars experience first-hand how they – with their passion, lived experiences, and academic knowledge – can have a positive impact in our community that is grounded in research.
Read more: Community-Academic Scholars contribute to a healthier Champaign County.
Scholars choose to spend their summers investing in our Champaign County community and their futures, while many of their peers return home and work summer jobs. Funds raised go directly to students in the program for summer housing and living costs.
Faculty, community partners, and students share that their experiences were meaningful, impactful, and expanded their perspectives and networks. Your gift allows the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute to continue offering this experience to more students. Since the program started in 2019, 101 students have worked with 54 community partners on 89 projects.
Help us continue training and developing researchers who understand and value community perspectives!
