Mary Davis Fellowship

Mary Davis Fellowship in Public Service was established in recognition of Whittier College’s commitment to providing an outstanding education to its students by Mary Davis.

The fellowship will be awarded to two undergraduate students annually, who are pursuing internships or field research related to public service, such as economic development and general improvement of the human condition. This fellowship is particularly directed at women from any major who have a firm career interest in public service and who will do their internships or field research projects in the U.S. or abroad (except China).

Eligibility Criteria

  • Sophomore or junior standing
  • 3.0 GPA or higher
  • Identify as a woman
  • Open to students of any major or academic program

Selection Criteria

  • Must have an interest in public service.
  • Demonstrate academic ability.
  • The ability to conduct and complete the proposed research project, internship, or experience.
  • Previous experience with research is welcome, but not necessary.
  • If traveling abroad is part of the proposal, the ability to engage in study abroad.

Program Benefits

  • A stipend of $4,000.00 (to be used for research activities & travel, applied toward tuition, etc.)
  • A research or travel budget of $1000.00
  • Upon completion of the project, a scholarship $2000.00 will be applied towards tuition.
  • The faculty mentor will also receive a $500.00 stipend upon completion of the project. 

Applying to the Program

The application is due on the first Friday of March. Use this guide to help you gather your documents. Request these items two weeks prior to the deadlines.

A complete application consists of:

  • Unofficial academic transcripts (a PDF of your Degree Works)
  • A resumé
  • Current semester Course Progress Report for each 3-4 credit course you are enrolled in.
  • Student Contract
  • Signed Mentor Agreement 
  • A written recommendation letter from the faculty mentor for the project.
  • A reference contact from someone outside of the applicants major and project’s area of focus. This can be a Faculty member or when applicable to the project a personal reference (e.g., employer, internship supervisor, volunteer coordinator).
  • A 500-word essay explaining why you want this fellowship opportunity, how you will benefit from the fellowship both personally and professionally, your career goals in public service, and what personal qualities (skills, attributes, and/or abilities) you possess that will ensure a successful fellowship experience. 
  • A 1000-word essay outlining the proposed research project, internship or travel experience.  This should articulate the primary objective of your project, discuss why is it important, explain the methodology(ies)/ approach(es) that will be used to accomplish your objective, present a time line for the project during the fellowship period, and identify the end result(s) of your project (e.g., a public presentation at URSCA or other conference, a paper, art work, play, etc.).
  • Selected semi-finalists may be interviewed.
Apply Now

Fellowship Advisor

Professor Sara Angevine
sangevine@whittier.edu

Past Fellows

  • Jewel Henderson (2019 - 2020)
  • Norma De La Rosa (2019 - 2020)
  • Piper Lowinger (2018 - 2019)
  • Jasmin Cao (2018 - 2019) Improvement of literacy skills for children and adults in Whittier area
  • Maya Eylon (2017 - 2018)
  • Taylor Charles (2017 - 2018)
  • Malory Henry (2016 - 2017): Maternal care for HIV positive women in South Africa
  • Ciara Clark (2016 - 2017)
  • Yerin Kwak (2016 - 2017): Sex education for young women in Myanmar and assistance in starting a small craft business for women
  • Kelcey Negus (2015 - 2016): Work with Amy Biehl Foundation in South Africa and internship with UNHCR, NY, dealing with refugee issues
  • Sofia Duenas (2015 - 2016): Promotion of literacy for non-English learners
  • Laneisha Ross (2014 - 2015) Study for “Camp Choice,” youth empowerment organization
  • Lauren Galantai (2014 - 2015) Nutritional program for local schools
  • Jessica (Marisol) Marroquin (2013 - 2014) Study of factors relating to Autism
  • Sophia Genovese (2013 - 2014): Work with Amy Biehl Foundation in South Africa and internship with UNHCR, NY, dealing with refugee issues