Applications open for up to $70,000 in funding
Clark students are invited to apply for the Becker Global Public Service Award, a new opportunity for rising college seniors to lead a one-year humanitarian project conducted anywhere in the world.
The award, administered by the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, provides up to $70,000 to support student-driven solutions that advance global human welfare and address pressing social challenges across communities. Following Becker College’s closure, a $13 million endowment was transferred to the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, $2 million of which is earmarked for this award.
Applicants must be a graduating senior in a bachelor’s degree program or enrolled in or graduating from an approved 4+1 advanced degree program from one of the following eligible Worcester County schools: Clark University, Assumption University, College of the Holy Cross, Fitchburg State University, Nichols College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, or Worcester State University. Preference will be given to students with long-term residency in Worcester County.
Applications are open now and close on Dec. 4 at 11:59 p.m. Once applications are submitted, a committee from each college or university will select one finalist from their school. The finalist from each school will be interviewed by a committee of community volunteers and Greater Worcester Community Foundation staff. A single student from among the finalists will be selected and award notification is expected in March.
Students seeking more information about the award can attend virtual information sessions on Thursday, Oct. 8, at noon or Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. Becker School of Design & Technology Professor Minka Stoyanova is Clark’s designated contact for the Becker Global Public Service Award. Anyone with questions is invited to connect with Stoyanova.
“The Becker Global Public Service Award offers graduating seniors a unique opportunity to connect their academic studies with their future plans through service-oriented research and practice,” says Stoyanova. “Moreover, the award provides valuable financial support to help recipients launch careers dedicated to creating meaningful, positive change in the world.”
Projects may address a wide range of public service areas, the Foundation says, including but not limited to:
- Saving lives
- Improving quality of life
- Reducing inequality
- Driving social change and equity
- Promoting economic stability and growth
- Upholding democratic institutions
- Supporting vulnerable populations
- Crisis management and stability
- Providing community resources
- Advancing public knowledge
The $70,000 funding may be used for project costs including supplies, equipment, and personnel, and support costs including travel and living expenses. Funding will be distributed in phases based on project milestones.
