Fellowships & Grants

Trans Studies at the Commons enters and deepens the ongoing conversation in transgender studies by establishing a cohort model for scholar-activists 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 (starting Fall 2024), we will offer 7 fellows funding, mentorship, and community as they navigate a vital topic in trans studies. Our 2024-2025 theme is Trans Theory and will be led by Assistant Professor Abraham Weil.

Our call for the 2024-2025 fellowship cohort closed on August 1. Applicants will be notified in September.

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

Find our application here.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the first round of notifications being reviewed on September 15. The first round of applicants will be notified in October.