Empowering undergraduate students to actively engage in dialogue that broadens their perspectives.
Proposals are being accepted for programs, initiatives, and events that encourage dialogue and cultivate one or more of SNF Paideia’s dialogue values of curiosity, intentionality, community, and humility.
Programming Impact
“Our event accomplished much of its purpose: to welcome, affirm, and empower new students while connecting them to the legacy of William Adger and Ida Elizabeth Asbury. The historical framing, words of encouragement from upper classmen and alumni, and the opportunity for informal networking all created a strong sense of belonging. Students appeared reassured by seeing themselves reflected in those who came before them, and the atmosphere balanced formality with warmth in a way that made the event feel both significant and approachable.” —Brad Ferdinand, UMOJA , The William Adger & Ida Elizabeth Asbury Welcome Ceremony
“Several participants opened up about their own experiences with activism, expressing some frustration with the current political climate. The panelist responded with empathy and reassurance, sharing her own journey of perseverance and resilience, which helped re-inspire the group. Other attendees also contributed by discussing their personal involvement in civic engagement and local organizing, helping others in the room identify concrete ways to get involved. Overall, it was a powerful exchange that reminded everyone of the importance of collective action and community support”. —Jose Mojarro, Penn for Immigrant Rights, Expanding Sanctuary: Movie Screening and Conversation on Civic Engagement and Activism
Key Goals:
Create programming to empower undergraduate students to actively engage in dialogue that broadens their perspectives.
Facilitate a supportive environment in which undergraduates can voice their thoughts, listen to others, and respectfully challenge ideas.
Strengthen connections among undergraduate students by creating spaces for collaborative dialogue on topics that impact their academic and social experiences.
Parameters:
Funding is available exclusively for undergraduate programming.
Penn undergraduate and graduate students, staff, faculty, and University centers may apply for grants as long as programming is primarily for undergraduate students.
This grant does not fund travel expenses. It is not intended to support individual travel, including conference attendance, study abroad programs, or similar travel-related activities.
Grants can be awarded up to $1,500 for programs and events.
Eligible expenses include:
Food
Merchandise
Books
Venue costs
Vendors (e.g., photographers)
Grant proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis, from August 25, 2026 until April 23, 2027. Please note that events should be scheduled no sooner than three weeks before the intended day of the event to allow time for review and planning.
If awarded, you will receive an award letter outlining the next steps. Please note that you will be required to complete a reporting form to share your reflections and photos from the event.
For more information, contact: Dr. Rhina El-Amin, Director for Undergraduate Education & Innovation, SNF Paideia Program.
Empowering undergraduate students to actively engage in dialogue that broadens their perspectives.