Public Humanities Fellowships
2024-25
The CIH Public Humanities Fellowships offer an unparalleled experience to exceptional post-candidacy doctoral students pursuing research in the Humanities to carry out a research project in a community organisation for 12 weeks (at 20 hours a week) over the course of the summer, for a stipend of $7500 + tuition reimbursement. The Fellowships are the perfect opportunity to gain community engagement experience, which will be equally valuable in the eyes of future employers, whether you decide to pursue an academic career or not. And they are a golden opportunity to apply your hard won but exceptionally transferable skills in research, communication, critical thinking, writing, etc. for the public good.
Among the organisations which we have partnered with in the past, since launching this programme in 2020, are the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, Esker Foundation, Centre for Sexuality, The Confluence, and Alzheimer Calgary. Each Fellowship opportunity advertised is a project devised by the community organisations according to their needs, i.e. these projects are not designed to match anyone’s specific research fields and indeed you are strongly encouraged to challenge yourself by applying for a Fellowship opportunity which has no obvious connection at all to your research area.
The overall goals of the programme are twofold:
- To show high-level Humanities doctoral students how transferable their skills are.
- To show community organisations the benefits of employing Humanities doctoral students.
Hear from a former Fellow about her experience working with Fort Calgary
Nella Darbouze-Bonyemme speaks about her experience as a Calgary Institute for the Humanities Public Humanities Fellow during the spring and summer of 2022, developing tours and public programming for Fort Calgary.
The application process
In late September each year, the community projects to be carried out in the spring/summer of the following year will be advertised. The deadline for applications for the current round of Fellowships is November 15, 2024. For details about what to include in your application see further below.
The applications will be reviewed and the most promising candidates invited for an interview, which will take place during the first week of November. Please note that the selection process is highly competitive and invitation for an interview is not a guarantee of an offer.
What do you commit to if your application is successful?
Those whose applications are successful and who are offered one of the Fellowships commit to the following:
- To apply for a Transformative Talents Internships (TTI) in November, as part of the funding process.
- To participate, in the W2025 term, in a series of six seminars spaced out over the term. These seminars are designed to encourage deeper thought about what it actually means to be a Public Humanities Fellow.
- To carry out their work at their respective community organisation from May 14 to August 9, 2025.
- To give a public presentation about their experience, which will be scheduled in mid-to-late September 2025 after the completion of the projects.
Eligibility
To be eligible to hold a CIH Public Humanities Fellowship, you must meet the following criteria: (1) You must be a PhD student pursuing a Humanities-oriented dissertation; (2) you must have completed your candidacy requirements before the work placement starts in May 2025, and (3) you must also be enrolled as a full-time PhD student until at least the end of August 2025.
Please note that the principle upon which this program is founded is that your general skills as Humanities doctoral students are transferable. There is no requirement or expectation that your own research area matches any of the advertised positions; indeed, as noted above, in the ideal placement it does not.
2024-25 Public Humanities Fellowship Opportunities
View placement opportunities for the 2024-25 Public Humanities Fellowships. Applications should be customized according to the opportunity or opportunities you are applying for.
LOCATION: Calgary Catholic Immigration Society
TITLE: Representation and Cultural Safety
DATES: May 14–August 9, 2025
The Calgary Institute for the Humanities in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Public Humanities Fellowship Placement with the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS).
Job Description:
CCIS is looking for a Public Humanities Fellow to contribute to our work around newcomer engagement, cultural safety, cultural thinking, research ethics, and data equity. Although we cannot at the moment predict at what point precisely this process of consultation and policy making will be at in Spring 2025, the commitment to this placement will be dedicated to this space of work leveraging on the research and knowledge transfer abilities of public humanities fellows, as well as their area of focus and education.
Cultural Safety: “is an outcome that is based on respectful engagement which recognizes and strives to address power imbalances inherent in the health and social services system. It results in an environment free of racism and discrimination where people feel safe receiving health care” (Government of NWT 2016: 9). Cultural safety is part of the “continuum” that includes cultural awareness, cultural sensitivity, and cultural competence, but cultural safety is “the ultimate end” (Government of NWT 2016: 9).
About the Organisation:
Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) is a non-profit organization that offers settlement and integrations support and services to all immigrants and refugees in Calgary and Southern Alberta. For over 40 years, CCIS has worked towards developing and delivering innovative programs and services that are enriched by the engagement of our funders, partners, and local community.
As one of the largest Settlement agencies in Canada, CCIS ensures that our services respond to the needs of ethnically diverse communities with Calgary. Our deeply rooted involved with ethno-cultural communities is reflected in the diversity of our staff, our leadership, and our Board of Directors. Combined with our volunteer collective, CCIS is represented in almost every cultural, faith based, and linguistic background observed in the changing makeup of our City.
CCIS works at the intersection of Culture and Systems with a focus on equity and inclusion. Recently, this has translated down to ensuring equity in the health space as it applies to access for priority populations such as Newcomers. CCIS is involved in several research projects in the space of Public Health that invite a review of access of current health practices. CCIS also works in the area of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion with a specific focus on Cultural Responsiveness across all components of a given organizational system. An example of projects in this space includes developing sector specific Newcomer Engagement Strategies, Cultural Thinking Workshop development and facilitation, and projects focused specifically on Data Equity and representation. Currently we are working on a Newcomer Research Library that is an accessible digital library of research on immigrants and refugees in Alberta. The library provides insight into topics and themes that researchers and community organizations highlight most frequently, while also highlighting gaps in Academic literature. CCIS also works very closely with the University of Calgary with the intent of advocating for, and placing influence on, ethical principles for research on newcomer populations. This includes working with Research Ethics Board around existing process and policies and the need for potential change.
Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of Amanda Koyama, Director of Strategic Engagement of CCIS, and Amanda Weighman, Principal Researcher of Habitus Collective, the Public Humanities Fellow will:
- Conduct literature reviews as they relate to cultural thinking and safety, equity, inclusion, and diversity
- Contribute to Engagement Frameworks by mobilizing knowledge into practical application as it relates to all aspects of organizational effectiveness and inclusion
- Inform how cultural safety could be embedded through organizational policies, practices, and staffing.
- Determine how to best involve communities for inclusive design to ensure cultural and physical safety.
- Support program planning, evaluation, and grant writing
- Develop reports, presentation, policy briefs, and other knowledge mobilization materials that synthesize findings for various audiences
- Contribute to, and recommend changes for the Newcomer Research Library – especially the liaison with Academics and research students
Qualifications:
- Background in community-based research methods
- Experience writing literature reviews
- Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Ability to work independently
- Strong writing skills
- Experience with diversity work and/or training a plus
- Expertise in theories/frameworks employed in diversity work and for analysing race and racism a plus
- Expertise in theories/frameworks for analysing place/space a plus
Eligibility:
To be eligible as a Public Humanities Fellow at the Calgary Institute for the Humanities, University of Calgary, you must: (a) be post-candidacy by the time the work placement begins; (b) be enrolled as a full-time student in the Faculty of Graduate Studies from September 2024 to the end of August 2025; (c) be carrying out doctoral research which employs a humanistic approach.
LOCATION: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary), 750 9 Ave SE
TITLE: Creative Experience, Exhibition & Program Research & Development
DATES: May 14–August 9, 2025
The Calgary Institute for the Humanities in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Public Humanities Fellowship Placement with The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland.
Job Description:
The Confluence is looking for a Public Humanities Fellow to help us broaden the stories we share about this layered site. Specifically, the fellow will help research, develop, and execute new exhibitions that broaden the stories of this place. They will collaborate with the Director of Creative Experience, Curator and Collections Manager. They will also take part in other related tasks at the museum to gain valuable insights into visitor experience and public programming.
About the Organisation:
Situated where the Bow and Elbow Rivers meet in Treaty 7 territory, the place that we now call The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland has played a central role in both the long and more recent histories of this region. The site is rooted in place-stories and memory practices of the Blackfoot Nations, Îyarhe-Nakoda Nations, Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Métis Nation of Alberta. The land was a natural gathering place to hunt, trade, and hold ceremony. Later, due to the land’s natural topography and social significance, it was where the North-West Mounted Police built Fort Calgary in 1875, operating until 1914. Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1925, it served as a train yard until 1975 when the lands were bought by the City of Calgary. Today it is at the heart of the city. We recognize that The Confluence is a layered place. It has multiple histories.
The Confluence is operated by the Fort Calgary Preservation Society. As a cultural centre and National Historic Site, our mission is sharing the histories and cultures of this place, with Calgarians and the world, to deepen understanding of the past and shape the future. We seek to demonstrate our commitment to reconciliation through the adoption of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s guiding principles. As caretakers of this unique National Historic Site, we aim to present these histories in an honest way to connect people by deepening their understanding, enhancing their curiosity, and informing their context for contemporary life.
Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of Lindsie Bruns (Director of Creative Experience), the Public Humanities Fellow will:
- Consult with the Team to finalize an interpretive plan and scope for future exhibit plans.
- Complete primary and secondary source research using in-person and online archives and libraries.
- Develop content and components for exhibitions, including: refining the “big idea” or overarching narrative; identifying key stories; working with the team to identify objects and visuals.
- Participate in visitor experience and public programming tasks as needed, including: supporting the front desk and supporting major community events (such as National Indigenous Peoples Day, Canada Day, Heritage Day).
Qualifications:
- Experience with research; experience with historical or archival research is an asset.
- Strong writing and public speaking skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a small, enthusiastic team.
- Willingness to be flexible and to embrace an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ attitude when necessary.
- Knowledge of the diverse histories of Treaty 7 territory, either through education or lived experience, is an asset.
Eligibility:
To be eligible as a Public Humanities Fellow at the Calgary Institute for the Humanities, University of Calgary, you must: (a) be post-candidacy by the time the work placement begins; (b) be enrolled as a full-time student in the Faculty of Graduate Studies from September 2024 to the end of August 2025; (c) be carrying out doctoral research which employs a humanistic approach.
LOCATION: Simon House Recovery Centre
TITLE: Leveraging Art Therapy and Indigenous Wisdom in Addiction Recovery
DATES: May 14–August 9, 2025
The Calgary Institute for the Humanities in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Public Humanities Fellowship Placement with the Simon House Recovery Centre (SHRC).
Job Description:
Simon House Recovery Centre (SHRC) is seeking to create a Therapeutic Arts Program to add to the programs already in place for the treatment and recovery of individuals suffering from addiction. A recent gift of Indigenous Art opens up the opportunity to incorporate Indigenous healing practices into this new program. This initiative aims to enhance the holistic healing experience for clients and support their recovery journey through creative expression and cultural connection. SHRC seeks a Public Humanities Fellow, therefore, to support getting this project off the ground. The Fellow will be responsible for undertaking a literature review on art therapy practices, especially those which already incorporate the therapeutic benefits of Indigenous Art. The Fellow would then report their findings to and work to support the counselling team and Indigenous liaison as they start to build a framework for a Therapeutic Arts Program.
About the Organisation:
Simon House Recovery Centre provides a structured 84-day residential treatment program, offering comprehensive addiction treatment services to adult males and individuals who identify as men. Each year, over 250 individuals embark on their recovery journeys at Simon House.
Our multidisciplinary team addresses the health and socioeconomic disparities of our clients, incorporating harm reduction methods and strategies to support their diverse needs. In our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for individuals from all backgrounds and with various substance use disorders, Simon House has expanded its services to include an Indigenous Cultural Program, with a specialized focus on First Nations communities and Indigenous peoples.
With the recent donation of Indigenous art pieces, we are excited to develop a therapeutic arts program as part of our Indigenous Cultural Program, further enriching the services we offer. At Simon House, we embrace recovery, creating opportunities for our clients to build Recovery Capital and support their long-term recovery.
Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of Simon House Recovery Centre's leadership team, the Public Humanities Fellow will:
- Conduct a comprehensive literature review on therapeutic arts programs and their effectiveness in addiction treatment, including on the healing aspects of Indigenous Art and its potential benefits in the recovery process.
- Support the counselling team and the Indigenous Liaison in developing a framework for a Therapeutic Arts Program that incorporates Indigenous Art practices.
- Create and present reports in clear and accessible language on these discussions and meetings, including any recommendations for integrating the program into Simon House’s treatment model.
- Support the counselling team and the Indigenous Liaison in identifying collaborative opportunities with Indigenous artists, cultural practitioners, and community organizations to support the program's development.
- Contribute to the Centre’s efforts to promote cultural awareness and inclusivity in its treatment approaches
Qualifications:
- Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources
- Critical and analytical thinking skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Familiarity with decolonizing practices an asset
- Experience working with/within equity-seeking communities is an asset
- Experience working with in the sector of mental health & addictions is an asset
- Experience with facilitation is an asset
Eligibility:
To be eligible as a Public Humanities Fellow at the Calgary Institute for the Humanities, University of Calgary, you must: (a) be post-candidacy by the time the work placement begins; (b) be enrolled as a full-time student in the Faculty of Graduate Studies from September 2024 to the end of August 2025; (c) be carrying out doctoral research which employs a humanistic approach.
Application procedure
Applications must contain:
The resume should summarize academic projects and achievements, work experience, skills, and university and community involvement. You may find it useful to look at the following handbook if you are wondering how to frame your skills for work in a non‐academic setting.
The cover letter should be single-spaced (no more than two pages) and address the following:
- What draws you to the CIH Public Humanities Program?
- Which specific position are you applying for and why? How would it fit into your graduate career trajectory? (If you are interested in more than one of the roles, we recommend you provide a separate cover letter for each, emphasizing how your skills make you the best fit for that position.)
- What specific strengths, experiences (academic as well as non‐academic), and achievements make you a strong candidate for the specified position?
- Any other relevant information you would like to share with the adjudication committee.
We seek two letters of reference, preferably from academic referees who are familiar with (and can speak to) your graduate studies trajectory, recent relevant achievements and experiences, and suitability for a Public Humanities Fellowship. Letters of reference for public humanities candidates should be sent directly to the CIH by email to cih@ucalgary.ca. Referees should be informed exactly which positions you are applying for, but only one letter per candidate is required; referees do not need to provide a separate letter for each role you are interested in.
- One letter must be from your supervisor. This letter should also affirm that taking on this commitment will not significantly impact your ability to complete your degree requirements in a timely fashion.
- The second letter may be from another academic or from a non-academic (for example, it could be from someone at a community organisation at which you worked or volunteered).
Past Public Humanities Fellows and Placement Opportunities
In 2020-21, we set out to partner community organisations with highly skilled doctoral students in the Humanities to collaborate on an organisation-specified project over the course of 12 weeks.