Undergraduate Scholars

After the death of George Floyd, President Ruth Simmons established a Center for Race and Justice that would focus on research, policy and training aimed at ending racial discrimination and injustice in our society. We have begun to think through what that looks like for us and are proud that we have a set of goals and projects to get us started. We are now looking for talented and dedicated undergraduates who want to work with us. As an undergraduate scholar at the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice you will not only learn more about racial justice, you will be expected to be a hands-on contributor to our work. You will be exposed to cutting edge research and nationally renowned scholars, writers and activists.

Here’s what you should know:

• If you meet the requirements and are selected, you will be assigned to work on one of our ongoing projects, which will equip you with research, writing and presentation skills.
• We welcome all majors and all perspectives. We prioritize intellectual curiosity, self-motivation, and personal accountability.
• You will be expected to attend and participate events and activities planned by the RJS Center.
• You will be expected to take a three credit course in the fall about Race and Social Justice that I will teach.

It is important that you think about your schedule for the year and take a realistic assessment of your availability. We will chose only 15 students for this first cohort and we want these to be students are seriously committed and available to do the work. A new cohort will be chosen every year, so there will be more opportunities in the future. Right now, understanding how we can make a more racially just and inclusive world is paramount. We take the work seriously, but we are also excited and joyful about what we are doing. If you think this is an environment where you will thrive, please consider applying.