Community Engagement Fellowship
All full-time students at Christopher Newport University are eligible to apply. Projects should address a genuine community concern and offer an innovative, feasible, and well-researched solution to that need. Although most projects will be local, proposals with a national or global scope will also be considered.
If you have any questions, please email Jessie Deal, Director of Community Engagement Fellowship, at jessica.deal@cnu.edu.
Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle are now open. Applications are due by Friday, March 28, 2025.
Program Objectives
The Community Engagement Fellowship Program seeks to:
- Enable students to work directly with community organizations to address pressing community needs.
- Foster partnerships between students, community organizations, and faculty mentors to create effective and sustainable solutions.
- Encourage thoughtful, research-based approaches to problem-solving that reflect the priorities and perspectives of the community.
- Strengthen relationships between the university and the broader community, ensuring that projects are rooted in mutual respect and collaboration.
- Provide students with a meaningful experiential learning opportunity that hones civic responsibility and career readiness skills.
What makes a successful Community Engagement Fellowship Proposal?
Successful proposals will include the following:
- A community partner who agrees to collaborate with the student on the project
- A faculty mentor who agrees to provide support, resources, and guidance
- A complete application form with a clear description of how the project will continue beyond the initial funding provided through the fellowship. Successful applications will include:
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- A project description detailing the collaborative planning process with the community partner and faculty mentor.
- A clearly defined work plan with goals, objectives, and timeline.
- A comprehensive budget outlining project expenses and explaining how the project will continue to benefit the community after the fellowship funding is complete.
- Signed commitments from the community partner and faculty mentor to collaborate throughout the project.
What does a Community Engagement Fellowship Stipend entail?
Applications must name the student applicant, a community partner, and a faculty mentor. Each collaborative team member will receive a stipend for participating in the program.
- Students receive a $1,000 stipend to research and execute their project,
- Community partners receive a $500 stipend for project collaboration and mentorship,
- Faculty mentors receive a $500 stipend for project mentorship.
- Up to $500 is available for project implementation expenses, including supplies, travel, fees, and services (printing, building rental, etc.). Larger amounts will be awarded on a case-by-case basis.
