The Mellon Public Humanities and Social Justice (MPHSJ) Scholars Program offers advanced research opportunities for promising undergraduate students in public humanities—an evolving interdisciplinary field that draws on humanistic modes of inquiry to help address pressing social justice issues.
"The public humanities offer an alternative vision, one that . . . The Mellon Foundation (e.g., Hunter College), and [other programs] have affirmed and one that I hope other funders and educational institutions will increasingly come to value and support."
Judith Butler, Renowned Philosopher and Gender Theorist
Meaningful Research
Our students work closely with faculty members and other like-minded scholars to conduct research and public outreach projects that have an impact beyond the college campus.
"We are enormously proud of our Public Humanities Program and grateful to the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for supporting our students in such deeply meaningful research."
Dr. Jonathan Fanton, Principal Investigator, 2019-2025
Meet the Team
Supporting Success
Our staff is committed to the Mellon Foundation's mission of building just communities empowered by critical thinking where new and creative ideas can thrive.
For students accepted into this selective program, advanced research, public projects and seminar participation can serve as a springboard for graduate studies or help pave the way for careers in the arts or public affairs.