Companions in the Fight for Racial Justice

Continuing its commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and supporting scholars seeking to effect change, UC Santa Barbara's graduate division has selected three new Racial Justice Fellows: Ph.D. Students India Sanders, Marlene Lopez Torres and Diego Lazcano Avila will receive funding and mentoring for teaching, research and mentoring.

“The Racial Justice Fellowship program initially grew out of a commitment to combat racial injustice following the murder of George Floyd,” said Leila J. Rupp, Anne and Michael Towbes Interim Graduate Dean. “Recruiting and supporting students who have a track record of research, teaching, and community engagement on racial justice issues remains critical to the graduate division. We are so proud of the work the scholars do and their commitment to giving back as they pursue their degrees.”

Since its inception in fall 2020, the Graduate Division has awarded the scholarship to 17 students. All awards are supported by cross-collaboration between academic departments and the support of private donors. Fellows are nominated by their departments as part of their recruitment campaign and receive an $8,000 summer stipend for the first three years and a five-year, fully-funded support offer from their department.

“The Racial Justice Fellowship is central to our goal of creating a more inclusive and diverse campus,” said Walter Boggan, director of graduate admissions, outreach and diversity. “By supporting students committed to racial justice, we showcase underrepresented voices and encourage work that leads to real social impact. This fellowship is key to attracting and empowering scholars who are passionate about creating meaningful change.”