Gaines Humanities Cooperatives
Gaines Humanities Cooperatives
Gaines Cooperatives assist in the formation of university networks by providing funding, space, and other institutional support for coalescing around common interests and goals, fostering new and emerging working groups on Humanities-focused research, pedagogy, advocacy, and public scholarship. Each cooperative is intended to promote interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary inquiry and lay the groundwork for innovative projects to advance the Humanities across campus and in the wider community.
Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open.
The Gaines Center will offer grants of up to $1500, to be awarded on a competitive basis. Funds may be used at members’ discretion, subject to approval by Gaines Center administration. Examples include, but are not limited to, ordering books; providing honoraria for visiting speakers or consultants; funding travel related to the group’s focus; participating in seminars or attending conferences; organizing writing retreats; and more. The grant cannot be used for salary. Funds must be spent by May 15, 2026.
Eligibility requirements: UK faculty, staff, and graduate students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply. Working groups must involve a minimum of three participants from two or more departments, units, or programs at UK. The minimum number of participants must be included at the time of application, though members may be added afterward. Groups should have a strong Humanities component and demonstrate a commitment to sustained participation throughout the AY 25-26 year.
Requirements at a Glance:
- Include a minimum of three participants from two or more departments, units, or programs at UK. Group composition can change before the fall start date.
- Designate a lead or two co-leads for the group.
- Attend an orientation in the fall.
- Meet a minimum of two times per semester.
- Provide a one-page report on activities at the end of the academic year.
- Limit participation to one working group per year.
- Submit an official funding request for approval if accepted.
Please feel free to contact Michelle Sizemore (michelle.sizemore@uky.edu) if you have any questions.