Educator Travel Scholarship

Important note: The SMU Human Rights Program is not accepting Educator Travel Scholarship applications at this time. Future application cycles will be announced here and communicated via campus email.

Educators currently teaching in any discipline, level, or school are eligible to join an SMU Human Rights Program trips at a reduced rate. Scholarships typically cover the entire ground package for the trip, including lodging, ground transportation, entry fees, etc. Airfare, some meals, and personal spending money are typically not covered.

How to apply

To apply, please email a CV and letter of interest to SMU Human Rights Associate Director Dr. Brad Klein at kleinb@smu.edu. The letter should discuss the applicant's background as an educator, interest in human rights, desired trip location, and reason for applying. Preference is given to applicants who outline plans to create a new course or program related to human rights in their school or community upon return.

Selection Details

A limited amount of educator scholarships are available. Applications are accepted on rolling basis. For full consideration, materials must be received several months before the desired trip is scheduled to depart. Funding is contingent upon the budget and roster for each trip and upon the application's merits. Educators may receive a scholarship once every two years. Full-time faculty and staff at SMU, as well as first time participants, receive priority in the selection process.

If selected, educators must submit a reflective essay within one month after returning from the trip. The essay should discuss how their traveling experience transformed them personally and professionally, and their new awareness impacted their relationships with students.