This spring, the Center for the Humanities and the Public Sphere launched the Alexander Grass Scholars Undergraduate Research Program, made possible by the generous support of the Alexander Grass Foundation. The program’s launch event, held on Tuesday, April 16, brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members to explore the research opportunities available and how participants could connect their own interests to the program’s mission of linking humanities research with the broader community.
Alexander Grass (1927-2009) founded the Rite Aid Corporation and graduated from the UF Levin College of Law. Beyond his business success, he is remembered for his generosity as a community philanthropist, and his support of UF and commitment to the humanities. Through this program, the center has involved undergraduate students in its mission to connect humanities research endeavors with the community where we live and teach, making it a proud part of Grass’ legacy.
The inaugural cohort consisted of 20 students, including first-year, second-year, and thirdyear students, whose research interests and backgrounds spanned the humanities and humanistic social sciences, such as history, political science, linguistics, and philosophy. Over the summer, this cohort participated in a foundational course aimed at introducing humanities research skills, both traditional and digital, through project-based learning and hands-on collaboration with faculty, graduate mentors, and community project leaders. Through these experiences, students not only developed their research capabilities, but also forged meaningful connections within their community, fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of public humanities, and emphasizing the importance of preserving and interpreting cultural heritage.
The program will culminate in a research symposium to showcase students’ individual projects, allowing them the opportunity to present their research findings, share their experiences, and highlight the impact of their projects on the community.
What Our Students Are Saying
“This was a wonderful experience, and it has helped me connect with people and build research skills I didn’t know I would be able to develop this early in my education. ”
“Doing real research, especially oral histories, was very impactful. I learned a lot about how research tells a story if you’re open to it, and how important community involvement is in the humanities…Being able to talk to members of communities in Gainesville was the absolute most valuable because it inspired and motivated me. ”
“Working with the museum group and seeing the work that collections managers do for the community…highlights how important local history is. ”