As a former recipient of SPSSI’s Clara Mayo Grant (Fall 2017) and active committee member since 2022, I jumped at the opportunity to serve as chair in Spring 2024. This program of funding is intended to support master’s theses or pre-dissertation research on topics broadly related to sexism, racism, and prejudice. Although preference is given to students who are enrolled in terminal master’s programs, applications from students enrolled in doctoral programs are still welcomed.

The application cycle has two rounds, annually: a Spring deadline in May and a Fall deadline in October. Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal and budget justification, a letter of recommendation from their faculty advisor, and a letter of institutional support of matching funds (if available). The maximum amount awarded for any one grant is $1,000, however, up to six awards of $500 each may be granted each award cycle.

The committee is typically comprised of 3-4 faculty members who are field experts in psychology and related social sciences. Standout applications include: 1) A brief review of relevant literature that leads to a clear research question and testable hypothesis, 2) A feasible method with sufficient details connected to the hypothesis, 3) A consideration of the data analysis plan/predicted results, and 4) A strong connection to the goals of the grant and SPSSI writ large. Previous winners of this award have been able to use their funds for participant payment incentive, computer programs, research supplies/equipment, and more.

If you are a master’s or pre-doctoral student with a novel research idea who needs a little help getting your project off the ground, please consider applying to the Clara Mayo Grant!

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