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The University of Memphis (UofM) and the University of South Florida (USF) have announced significant grants from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, totaling $4.9 million and $4.8 million, respectively, in support of their humanities programs.

The five-year grants aim to enhance student internships and establish endowments to fund the programs in perpetuity.

At the University of Memphis, the grant will support approximately 125-145 paid humanities internships annually, as well as staff and faculty development. The funding will provide resources for two new staff positions in career services, further enriching the internship experience. 

This will enable students to gain hands-on experience in various fields, including museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

Similarly, at the University of South Florida, the grant will help bridge the financial gap for nonprofit organizations, such as museums, arts organizations, and human rights and environmental advocacy groups, which often operate on lean budgets.

These organizations will now be able to offer paid internships to students, providing them with valuable work experience and skills development.

Both universities will pay interns $20 per hour, providing a competitive stipend for their work. According to UofM Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Abby Parrill-Baker,

“By providing resources and essential support services, this grant will empower more than 100 students to gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and enhance their career prospects each year.”

USF Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Elizabeth Spiller expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, 

“We are very excited about this partnership and the opportunity to make a lasting and transformational difference for our students—one we hope will be a model for other universities.” 

The grants are expected to have a profound impact on the universities’ humanities programs, enabling students to pursue their passions and careers with greater confidence and preparedness.

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