The Leon E Clark Fellowship for Applied Research on Culture and
International Development in Latin America and Africa.
Spring 2016
Professor Leon Clark was one of American University’s earliest and most
prominent International Development leaders. He initiated and ensured that
international development at American University be ethical, just, respectful, and
people-focused. He was the founder of the International Training and Education
Program (ITEP), and an early and strong supporter of the International
Development Program (IDP). He was also founder and principal editor of the
World Cultural Series, the group of books that presented world cultures through
the “eyes” of their own people. He carried out numerous assignments as an
international development consultant in Africa and Asia. Throughout his career he
sought to promote greater understanding of the cultures of people in developing
countries.
In the spirit of Dr. Clark’s legacy and commitment to intercultural understanding,
the Fellowship sponsors research on development issues with a “cultural” lens.
The objective is to bring into the understanding of other cultures, what Dr. Clark
called, an “inside” perspective. Such a perspective counterbalances
ethnocentrism, and finds common ground and workable solutions to development
challenges. The ultimate goal is to become more sensitive and effective when
operating in different cultural contexts.
In the upcoming semester, the Fellowship will finance up to two independent
study projects on the general theme of culture and development. The Fellowship
can cover the cost of a 3 credit course or, in the case of an exceptional proposal,
costs associated with a summer field study with limited tuition support before
and/or after the field study.
Applications will need to be submitted to the Program Coordinator
(emilie@american.edu) by February 15, 2016. Proposals must be no more than
two pages in length. The purpose of the study, the key issues of analysis, the
country of focus, and the method of research (e.g. literature review, participatory
research) must be clearly explained, and a short initial bibliography must be
attached. The proposal should include “deliverables” such as papers or
presentations, including a final paper in the form of a “publishable” article.
A selection will be made by the ID Program Director and selected IDP faculty
including Dr Maria Donoso Clark. The decision will be based on: 1.) the student’s
academic record; 2.) the student’s ability to carry out the research; and 3.) the
quality of the research proposal. The proposal should be feasible and focused on a
significant topic with the potential to yield fresh and useful results.
Revised November 18, 2015