Social innovation is about finding creative solutions to social problems that promote positive change. Grinnell College's mission is to provide a liberal arts education that is rooted in social justice, critical thinking, diversity, and global awareness. Our commitment to social innovation reflects its belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities for the better.
ABOUT
The founders of Grinnell College believed we could always do more for others. From the beginning, we have viewed our role as an institution as a responsibility to contribute to the common good. The Social Innovator in Residence Program aims to provide social innovators with opportunities to advance their work by leveraging the resources of Grinnell College. Goals for the program include fostering reflection and exploration with campus constituents, receiving research support, developing collaborations, teaching and leading workshops, building professional connections and mentor relationships, amplifying social innovation work and message, and providing time for reflection and renewal. The program provides longer-term collaborations to help innovators further their work.
2025 Grinnell College Social Innovator in Residence Application
The Social Innovator in Residence will participate in a five- to seven-week residence program on campus, during which they will interact with Grinnell’s students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the wider community. Through a range of programming and activities, the social innovator will have the opportunity to work on their project and engage with the community to create lasting social impact.
Fall Semester 2025: The recipient will spend five to seven weeks in person at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa, United States
Spring Semester 2026: The recipient and Grinnell College may co-create the continuation of projects and/or collaborations that occurred during the fall residency.
Individuals working in any sector and who meet the following criteria are strongly encouraged to apply:
The social innovator will receive an award and stipend that together total $50,000.
Grinnell's commitment to social justice is reflected in every aspect of our approach to education. The Center for Careers, Life, and Service (CLS) plays a crucial role in shaping students' civic engagement education. Through the CLS, students have access to a range of co-curricular and academic community-engaged learning opportunities that enable them to connect with their community in meaningful ways. These experiences are designed to complement the College's residential curriculum, which emphasizes community building and critical dialogue. Together, these elements of Grinnell's educational approach provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social justice and social innovation. By supporting students' interests and providing opportunities for them to engage in service and social innovation, Grinnell prepares students to become agents of positive change in their communities and the world.
If you have additional questions about the Social Innovator in Residence program or application process, please contact Vicki Nolton, assistant director for social innovation partnerships and education, at noltonvi@grinnell.edu
Center for Careers, Life, and Service
1127 Park Street
Grinnell, IA 50112
United States
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