Holmes Scholars Program

About Holmes Scholars

The Holmes Scholars Program provides a comprehensive graduate education experience focused on academic excellence and professional development. 

Through a supportive learning environment, scholars enhance their academic skills through research and dissertation writing boot camps, research software training, and monthly meetings covering essential topics like research methodology, teaching strategies, and career preparation. The program also offers practical support through fellowship and grant funding opportunities and summer job positions. 

At the heart of the program is the opportunity to join a vibrant, national community of scholars. The annual Holmes  Pre- Conference serves as a cornerstone event where scholars can present research, participate in roundtable discussions, develop leadership skills, and attend workshops and trainings.  During these events, scholars network with peers, faculty, and administrative leaders from Colleges of Education and Human Development. 
 
Beyond the annual conference, the program provides extensive networking and professional growth opportunities. Scholars receive support to attend additional conferences aligned with their research interests and participate in a special Washington, DC event featuring meet-and-greets with lawmakers. The program maintains an active social media network that connects scholars with regular webinars, training opportunities, and job postings, ensuring continuous professional development and community engagement throughout their academic journey. 

Holmes Scholars Programs Recognitions

...The Holmes program was a transformational experience for me, and has opened the door for many other opportunities and professional growth. 

Bianca Nightengals-Lee, Ph.D Director, Lewise Walker Institute for Race and Ethnic Relations

...I found a community of scholars and professionals who shared my passion for creating equitable and inclusive educational spaces...

Yohimar A. Sivira, PhD. Research Associate, Systems Develpment and Improvement Center

...This network and its mentorship were crucial in pushing me to explore and pursue opportunities that I might have otherwise overlooked....

Tara Harmon Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Diversity Leadership Academy (DLA) Fellow

...I was afforded the opportunity to connect with Holmes Scholars across the U.S. who became cheerleaders for my success and lifelong friends...

Dr. Kish Cumi Price CEO & Co-Founder, Price Management Group

..provided essential financial support to attend and participate in out-of-state conferences, preparing me for a successful career in higher education

Tytianna Ringstaff, PhD Founding Executive Director, Honey Tress Academy LLC

The advisors of UofL's Holmes Scholar program had the best interest of the scholars at heart and offered academic as well as mental health supports...

Lorita Rowlett, M.Ed Holmes Scholar Alumni

...I am passionate about helping future teachers and students to value diversity, equity, and inclusion in their educational experiences...

Anqi Fan, S.P. Doctoral Candidate, Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics Education

...opportunities to present my research and connect with like-minded individuals committed to addressing inequities within the education domain...

Dr. Cynthia Thomas Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity, School of Computing and Analytics, Northern Kentucky University

Application Process

Please send the following to Dr. Michèle Foster and Dr. Sheron Mark

1

Curriculum Vitae

2

Statement (500 words)

Statement must include:

  • A commitment to Education and/or human development
  • Your research agenda regarding equity and diversity
  • Why the Holmes Scholar designation is an aspiration for you.

3

Letter of Nomination from a UofL Faculty Member

  • Letter must be sent directly from the faculty nominee to Drs. Michèle Foster and Sheron Mark.

4

University of Louisville Holmes Scholar Program Application

UofL Holmes Scholar Program Application about

Application Deadline

Holmes Scholarship Program Application Deadline

Applications are due by 5:00 p.m.

Contact NYSTRAND

Nystrand Center of Excellence in Education (NCEE)

Department Website about

Location

College of Education & Human Development
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY 40292