The Department of Anthropology is proud to announce the creation of a new student scholarship: UNT Anthropology Scholarship for Racial Justice.

In June 2020, the Department of Anthropology committed to expanding its efforts to be more deliberate about doing anti-racist work and more intentional in supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students, staff and faculty.

"We live in a time in which there is an urgent need for leaders who embody a commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and civility", said Dr. Lisa Henry, Chair and Professor. "The purpose of this scholarship is to recognize and encourage students who are declared anthropology majors or minors who have a demonstrated commitment to promoting and protecting human rights and social justice through scholarship, advocacy, and action", said Henry.

The award was developed from Anthropology alumni, and it will provide anthropology undergraduate and graduate students funds to embark on travel, research, service work, and gain educational experiences that may not have otherwise been possible.

"By taking the bold step to expand our scholarships, we not only will increase student access to aid, but we also will grow our department's student resources," said Henry.

Anthropology students whose research and/or service work focuses on issues related to racial justice will be eligible to benefit from the award.

The scholarship will be available starting fall 2023, and to be considered for the UNT Anthropology Scholarship for Racial Justice students must meet the following criteria:

  1. Meet the minimum entrance and continuing academic performance standards of the University (or its successor) in effect at the time of any award;
  2. Maintain ½ time enrollment (undergrads) or ¾ time enrollment (grads;
  3. Enroll as a student majoring in anthropology in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (or their successors);
  4. Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent);
  5. Be actively working on a research and/or service project focused on issues related to racial justice and equality;
  6. Submit a personal statement of no more than 500 words that explains why the applicant is a strong candidate for this scholarship and how their research project and/or service work addresses issues of racial justice and equality;
  7. Submit a resume or CV; and
  8. Preference may be given to:
    1. First-generation students; and/or
    2. Applicants that demonstrate eligibility for need-based financial assistance as determined by completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (or its successor), which includes an application process that contains written release from the student to share FAFSA information between University departments and donors coordinating related award processes.

If no applicant meets the above criteria, available funds will be held for future awards. The scholarship may continue to be awarded to a previous recipient on an annual basis in successive years if the recipient reapplies for the scholarship, continues to meet the eligibility requirements outlined in this memorandum and funds are available.

To support the UNT Anthropology Scholarship for Racial Justice, visit its give page here.

Bryant Marion, Director of Development

T: 940-565-2781

C: 317-993-4487

E: bryant.marion@unt.edu

The UNT Department of Anthropology educates and trains students with the use of anthropological theories, methods, and perspectives to solve problems and improve people's lives. A degree in anthropology will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the challenges and opportunities of living in an increasingly diverse and globalizing world. To learn more about the department, visit: anthropology.unt.edu