Two New Dwight Hall Fellowships Announced

In so many ways, the Yale experience is unique. In today’s climate, it is more unique than ever. In response to today’s world, Dwight Hall is announcing two new fellowship programs, Community Response Fellows and Family Support Fellows.

“Dwight Hall is continuing to evolve, and it is more important than ever for us to meet students where they are at,” says Mark Fopeano, Director of Programming and Evaluation. “We’re really excited to announce these two fellowships, which try to address the realities our students and communities are facing.”

Community Response Fellows is intended to support students that are working with community partners, yet are not receiving financial support. “Dwight Hall wants to do everything possible to make sure that students are able to choose the social sector for service or employment, and we have heard from so many students that have had to walk away from really positive relationships because support isn’t always there,” says Mark.

The program will require students to complete an application as well as submit a letter of support from their community partner. In return, students will receive a Service Award and have weekly check-ins with their peers.  If a student is eligible for Federal Work Study, they may receive an extended Service Award.

“Dwight Hall’s mission statement calls for support to both students and community partners – supporting existing relationships is a perfect way to satisfy our entire mission statement,” shares Mark.

While any student is eligible to apply, there will be preferences for students receiving financial aid, supporting New Haven or their home community organizations, and students working on behalf of today’s most pressing societal issues (anti-racist and response to COVID-19).

Family Support Fellows is intended to support students who did not come back to campus, and instead have chosen to be home actively supporting their families during the global pandemic.

“We know that students had to make difficult choices this semester, and the organization is supporting students that have chosen to be home. Students might be home acting as caretakers for siblings in school, running errands and supporting at-risk family members, or even supporting the recovery of folks from COVID-19.  We want those Yale students to know they aren’t invisible,” says Mark.

Students will also complete an application for Family Support Fellows, and in the application will categorize the form of family support they’re providing. While there is an application and a due date, there will not be a formal selection process.  If demand is overwhelming, there will be a random lottery.

“This was a really hard one – we do not have unlimited funds for this type of program, but do not want to be in the business of qualifying family needs.  Students are already putting themselves out there by applying, we just felt like adding too many personal details would be even more unfair. We hope we’re able to support any student that requests it.”

Community Response Fellows and Family Support Fellows are examples of Dwight Hall’s ability to use its adaptive position as a campus-based organization working to benefit the community.