Fellowships & Grants

Trans Studies at the Commons enters and deepens the ongoing conversation in transgender studies by establishing a cohort model for thinkers nationwide to gather and germinate ideas. The University of Kansas is our physical and virtual hub in constellating this transdisciplinary network, with funding from the Mellon Foundation.

Through an intensive trans oral history project, a transdisciplinary virtual fellowship program, and a unique cohort of faculty members and graduate students, we hope to catalyze growth in the field both at KU and beyond. Equally important is the work of transforming our local and regional landscape to be more transliberatory through a series of public-facing programs, events, and collaborations with community partners. We aim to build a dynamic, vibrant, and connected scholarly field with more just spaces for trans flourishing in and out of the academy.

For three academic years, we will offer 7 fellows funding, mentorship, and community as they navigate a vital topic in trans studies. Our 2024-2025 theme was Trans Theory, our 2025-2026 theme was Oral History, and our 2026-2027 theme will be Transgenre. We are open for applications through June 15, 2026 and more information can be found here.

In addition to our fellowship program, we offer three $3,500 grants each year to organizations and individuals doing the crucial work to sustain cultural organizing, community spaces, and accessible fun for trans and gender nonconforming people.

Applications are currently closed.