Knappenberg Fund Application

Do you have a creative idea for an experiential learning opportunity that involves off-campus study and/or travel?  Would a grant allow you to have an experience connected to your career goals that you would not have without financial support?  How would travel and experiential learning contribute to your understanding of the world as an enlightened citizen?  Maybe you want to volunteer in an orphanage in Russia or Tanzania, work with underserved women and children in Omaha, Washington DC, or Mumbai, or work on an organic farm in Nebraska, California, or Vermont.  A Knappenberger Fund Grant might be a step toward turning that creative idea into a reality.

Note: Financial need as determined by the FAFSA is a priority and some educational travel opportunities are not eligible for these funds. We encourage potential applicants to check with the financial aid office prior to submitting a proposal.

We invite grant proposals for projects with budgets up to $2500. Applications are accepted once per year. This year’s deadline is March 15, 2013 by 5pm. The selection committee will accept drafts and provide general feedback if submitted by March 1, 2013. Please turn them in to Dr. Liz Frombgen, Associate Academic Dean in Hurley-MacDonald 222A..  The ideal application describes a well thought-out proposal with specific details regarding the plan with clear connections to career goals and academic aspirations. Students who apply will need to be working in conjunction with at least one faculty member in designing their Knappenberger Fund project.

 Criteria weighed by the committee:

• Financial need as determined by the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is a priority. Please note that some educational travel opportunities are not eligible for these funds. We encourage potential applicants to check with the financial aid office prior to submitting a proposal.  
• Academic merit will need to be demonstrated by GPA and other academic factors. Unofficial transcripts need to be submitted with the application.
• Achievement.  A current resume with references will need to be submitted with the application.

Along with a clear plan, each application must have a budget and an annotated timeline of events and expenditures.

Your faculty sponsor must endorse your plan and proposal.
Finalists will interview with the selection committee in April.

Priority will be given to students who have not previously received a Knappenberger Fund Grant.  Please note these funds are not intended for participation in academic conferences.

We look forward to reviewing your ideas and individualized plans. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like help in developing your Knappenberger Fund application. We will enjoy working with you on your project.

For the Academic Dean’s office,
Liz Frombgen, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs
Professor of Political Science