The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) discretionary funds provide supplementary funding for DEI-related programs, projects and events. 

For funding requests related to research and scholarship, including travel (including dependent care), research-related workshops, data collection, captioning services, transcription, equipment, etc., please click here. 

Process 

• At least one month prior to when decision is required, applicants should complete this form and submit a narrative, budget, and other applicable support. The narrative should describe the ways in which the project, program or event will advance the University’s goals of being more diverse, equitable and inclusive.  It should include the nature, objectives, and expected outcomes of the proposed activity.  

• Generally within two weeks of submission of a complete application, you will be notified via email of the Vice Provost's committed level of support.

• Within 60 days after completion of project, please provide a final reporting of the following:

• Final financial report, in your desired format.  This should include actual expenses, as well as all funds received from other parties. Receipts aren't required, but may be requested upon review.  

• Conference schedules or programs, if applicable.

• Evaluation that describes how activity met or did not meet objectives or expected outcomes.

• Generally within two months of receiving the final report, we will journal entry the lesser of the amount spent or the amount committed.  If the final report is received by the end of May, we will transfer the funds prior to the end of June.

Key factors in review process:

• How the program, project or event enhances diversity, equity and inclusion for the University.

• Appropriateness of the budget to the proposed project.

• Degree to which attempts/guarantees have been made for other funding sources.

Activities that CAN be considered for funding:

• Travel expenses for presentations at professional conferences and scholarly meetings.

• On-campus conferences and symposia.

• Guest lecturers/performers.

Activities for which support is normally NOT available from ODEI:

• Non-conference travel.

• Parties, dances, or banquets.

• Regular salary of faculty or post-doctoral personnel.

• Computer hardware or software for routine use.

• Office equipment or communications purchase or installation.

• Equipment maintenance cost.

• Tuition support.

• Retroactive funding, costs overruns or expenses not allowed by grants.

• Individuals, projects, programs, or events which have received funding from the Vice Provost within the past two years.

NOTE: If students are involved with this project, contact the Office of Financial Aid to determine if they qualify for work study funds.

Revised June 2020