Faculty Initiatives Fund

The College of Social Science invites applications for competitive awards under the Faculty Initiatives Fund (FIF). A total sum of at least $18,000 is available to be awarded to one or more applicants in the fiscal year (FY) of 2010-11. A minimum match of $1,000 from the applicant’s unit is required.

The FIF was established by Dr. Gwen Andrew, Professor Emeritus and Dean Emeritus of the College of Social Science, with the support of the College's faculty, staff, friends and alumni. The FIF benefits faculty members holding appointments in the College of Social Science; this endowment recognizes and encourages the innovative and creative work of these faculty members. It ensures the vitality of the land-grant mission within the College by encouraging the development and utilization of new and useful knowledge.

The FIF promotes the production and dissemination of knowledge by supporting faculty research initiatives, the development of new public service efforts, and the publication of "pioneering" works that otherwise would not find outlets among commercial publishers. Applications that address STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) issues and/or represent pilot activities that would lead to proposals for external funding are particularly encouraged. 

Proposals are limited to two pages (eleven-point font, one-inch margins, double-spaced), and must address the stated objectives of the Fund, including a clear and concise statement of expected outcomes (you can add one page for references and one page for a proposed budget as well). Please assign a title to your project and make sure your name appears in a header on each page.  A letter from the unit chair/director with a commitment for the required matching funds must accompany each application. Applications should be submitted to the Associate Dean for Research at researchdean@ssc.msu.edu by 5:00pm on Friday, February 26, 2010.

Awardees will be chosen by a committee made up of members of the College Research Committee, and are notified in the Spring with awards given out after July 1, 2010. Instructions for accessing funds will be provided at the time of notification.  Funds may be used for expenses related to the project as submitted, consistent with University Policy and Procedures, but may not be used for faculty salaries. A brief report must be submitted within 12 months of the award date, explaining results and plans for follow-up. Further details will be provided to awardees at the time of notification.

2009-10 Faculty Initiatives Fund Awardee

2008-09 Faculty Initiatives Fund Awardees

2007-08 Faculty Initiatives Fund Awardees