THE GEN Z IMPERATIVE: LISTEN TO FEELINGS AND GIVE GEN Z A VOICE

NEW YORK, New York -  As Congress reconvened on Antisemitism at Post-Secondary Institutions  and Anti-Defamation League (ADL) hosts their “Never Again is Now” summit next week to confront the troubling rise of antisemitism overall and specifically on college campuses, including violent protests, and heart wrenching testimony yesterday, The Heart Monitors – a strategy and insights consultancy – believes it’s imperative to acknowledge the “why,” the feelings behind the facts and the realities truly faced by Generation Z (Gen Z). The Heart Monitors found that 70% of Gen Z feels apart from other generations and not heard.

The Heart Monitors was born in the wake of the October 7, 2023 Israel/Hamas attacks, which revealed the strong feelings, perspectives and larger social debate of the Gen Z generation. Co-founded by marketing and brand strategy industry pioneers Jon Bond and Robin Lemberg -  both parents to Gen Z aged children  – The Heart Monitors was created to better listen, understand and connect with the powerful feelings of Gen Z in the Hamas/Israeli conflict from all perspectives: Gen Z overall, Gen Z Muslims, Gen Z Jews, and what they term the Middle. Bond and Lemberg believe that exposing, and quantifying different facts and the  feelings behind them are the new currency to change minds and behaviors.

“Feelings are the new currency in an ‘Emotion economy’. Facts alone cannot combat feelings,” said Robin Lemberg, co-founder, The Heart Monitors. In a world of truth decay and misinformation,  we are in the Emotion Economy where feelings are the new contemporary currency that drives identification, adherence to a message, powerful narratives and ultimately behavior change. There are twenty core emotions and thousands of feelings. Feelings shift hearts to change behaviors and incite action — facts do not.”

Since January 1, 2024, The Heart Monitors has fielded over 300 short quantitative surveys supplemented by qualitative research conducted through a nationally representative panel of U.S. teens/adults. Research was conducted among Gen Z (ages 16-26), with results compared to the general population 16-plus (U.S., national), and then among separate samples of relevant sub-segments of Gen Z (self-identified Jews, Muslims and other, along with LGBTQ+ identifying Gen Zers when relevant). The key to the methodology is quick and timely reads on the most meaningful headlines, and related  pop culture events as they appear. This quick take on the “pulse” of GenZ is coupled with a bold approach: asking the questions that no one asks, so it is possible to derive the insights no one else is seeing, even when the answers might be hard to hear. And when confronted with a meaningful statistic, The Heart Monitors drills down further, to get to the raw feelings behind the facts and then uses a battery of feelings behind them.

From these research pulses, The Heart Monitors has revealed statistics and insights which indicate a disconnect between the perceptions of Gen Z and the general population around  the realities of antisemitism, perceptions of antisemitism, Hamas vs the IDF as well as  the actions of Israel and the beliefs of American Jews , the feelings of Gen Z Jews and Gen Z Muslims. The Heart Monitors has examined the events at Harvard as a microcosm of college campuses across the country,  quantified what is free speech or hate speech, their reactions to slogans, messaging and creative ideas circulating on social media and compared them to the General Population.

Just yesterday, The Heart Monitors found that only 50% of Gen Z identified the cartoons released by Harvard Professors as Antisemitic. Additionally, the majority of Gen Z does not view the Antisemitic cartoons as a form of hate speech (50%). Instead, as we know they argue for their right to free speech, even in educational settings. Moreover, the story of Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation was viewed as an influence of “rich Jewish donors” (60% agreement)  and less  her failure to address antisemitism and accusations of plagiarism, and that 46% of Gen Z believes that Jews should be considered a minority group with all others in the context of DEI, yet accusations of quotas at Harvard, Penn and other institutions of higher education speaks to the complexities at play.

Earlier Gen Z insights from The Heart Monitors from January 2024 through February 2024 show that only 32% of Gen Z believe the Holocaust is relevant today, 25% of Gen Z believe that both Hamas and IDF are terrorist organizations, and 50% of Gen Z agree the slogan “Free Palestine” inspires them to take action or support the cause. Gen Z feelings range from numb/indifferent, curious and confused, shocked, and suspicious, depending on the topic and inspired, sympathetic, sad, joyful, happy to creative messages and ads. “Never Again is Now” is a Jewish call to action, but alienating to others as the Holocaust is seen as history in the face of modern day genocide.

To Gen Z, Anti-Semitism is a gray area at best. Viewing this through a brand marketing lens, Israel is losing the propaganda war with Gen Z.,” said Jon Bond, co-founder, The Heart Monitors. “‘Free Palestine’ is arguably the best marketing campaign of the 21st century. It was a simple, powerful, unified message from a well orchestrated playbook. Gen Z responded, and Israel lost the hearts of Gen Z. In less than 5 months, the pro-Palestinian effort has flipped the script so that Israel is no longer ‘the underdog’ — they have become David, and Israel is now big, bad Goliath. What are the long term implications of this? We need to truly listen to Gen Z to understand more.”

To donate  your voice to your favorite non-profit and provide your perspective around this conflict to incite change please visit theheartmonitors.com. The Heart Monitors will be launching online forums for discussion and healthy debate.

###

The Heart Monitors is a new type of strategy consultancy that exposes the feelings behind the factsthat offer deep insights and drive behavior change. Made up of passionate leaders from the worlds of marketing, finance, non-profits, research and social science, The Heart Monitors bring a proprietary research tech stack, custom communities, daring questions, quick and timely reads and with products and services such as the “F Factor” and the “Gen Z Heart Tracker.” We empower non-profits, brands and their partners with powerful audience insights around messages, campaigns, topical and polarizing issues in order to craft a story that resonates, drives behavior and influences change. For more information, visit theheartmonitors.com.

Media Contacts: 

The Heart Monitors
Haley Steinhauser
haley@theheartmonitors.com
Ph: 562-991-3170

RocketshipPR
Warren Cohn
Warren@rocketshipPR.com
Ph: 917-7967463

Effie Collegiate US Launches 2024 Spring Semester Brand Challenge

The leading digital financial services company is inviting marketing students across the United States to create an effective integrated brand campaign

Effie United States (part of Effie Worldwide), a nonprofit that champions marketing effectiveness, announced that its 2024 Effie Collegiate program will be in collaboration with Ally. Modeled after the Effie Awards, the Effie Collegiate program engages marketing students to research, ideate, and develop comprehensive marketing plans to address real world business challenges.

For the Spring 2024 semester, college students across the country will be challenged by Ally and Effie to build Ally brand awareness, consumer advocacy, and consideration through a disruptive, integrated marketing campaign. Participating student teams will be briefed with a target audience, budget, and marketing challenge and have through April 3, 2024 to submit their projects.

All entries will be reviewed by a jury of marketers from across the Effie network, representing agencies, brands and media. The final teams will be invited to pitch their ideas to Ally’s Marketing team in late Spring 2024.

Ally is continuing its relationship with the Effies, following a successful Collegiate competition last year.  The Spring 2023 Brand Challenge winner was from Loyola Marymount University.

“The ideas presented by last year’s Effie Collegiate participants were innovative and truly brought to life the idea that we are all better off with an ally,” said Andrea Brimmer, Chief Marketing and Public Relations Officer at Ally. “We look forward to seeing more work that elevates our approach of challenging the status quo in financial marketing while engaging consumers where they are on their financial journeys.”

“I am so pleased to be kicking off another Collegiate Brand Challenge with our friends at Ally,” said Traci Alford, Global CEO, Effie Worldwide. “The Effie Collegiate competition offers students an unmatched opportunity to solve a real business challenge. Ally’s brief helps take the marketing theories learned at university and put them into practice. All underpinned by Effie’s framework for effectiveness. As always, I wish all students the best of success in this year’s program and look forward to seeing the results.”

Call for Entries for the Effie Collegiate US x Ally Brand Challenge is open now. The Challenge is open to students enrolled in full/part-time graduate, undergraduate and portfolio programs at accredited educational institutions.

For more information about the Effie Collegiate US competition, click here: https://marketing.effie.org/effiecollegiate_overview

About Effie Worldwide

Effie is a global 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to lead and evolve the forum for marketing effectiveness. Effie leads, inspires and champions the practice and practitioners of marketing effectiveness through education, awards, ever-evolving initiatives and first-class insights into marketing strategies that produce results. The organization recognizes the most effective brands, marketers and agencies, globally, regionally and locally through its 50+ award programs across the world and through its coveted effectiveness rankings, the Effie Index. Since 1968, Effie is known as a global symbol of achievement, while serving as a resource to steer the future of marketing success. For more details, visit effie.org.

About Ally Financial

Ally Financial Inc. (NYSE: ALLY) is a financial services company with the nation’s largest all-digital bank and an industry-leading auto financing business, driven by a mission to “Do It Right” and be a relentless ally for customers and communities. The company serves more than 11 million customers through a full range of online banking services (including deposits, mortgage, point-of-sale personal lending, and credit card products) and securities brokerage and investment advisory services. The company also includes a robust corporate finance business that offers capital for equity sponsors and middle-market companies, as well as auto financing and insurance offerings. For more information, please visit www.ally.com and follow @allyfinancial.

For more information and disclosures about Ally, visit https://www.ally.com/#disclosures.

For further images and news on Ally, please visit http://media.ally.com.

State Department Announces 2023-2024 Fulbright Top Producing Institutions

February 13, 2024

The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce 170 higher education institutions in 37 states and the District of Columbia have received the designation of Fulbright Top Producing Institution for having the highest number of candidates selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student and Fulbright U.S. Scholar Programs.

Fulbright Top Producing Institutions are grouped by Carnegie Classification, and represent the range of institutions engaging with the Fulbright Program and ensuring its broad impact on American communities across the country.

Lee Satterfield, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, commended the honorees: “Fulbright’s 2023-24 Top Producing Institutions represent the diversity of America’s higher education community. Dedicated administrators, faculty, and advisors support students and scholars to fulfill their potential and rise to address tomorrow’s global challenges through the Fulbright Program. We congratulate them, and all the Fulbrighters who are making a positive impact across the world.”

The institutions with the highest number of U.S. Scholars within their classification were California State Polytechnic University, Kirkwood Community College (Iowa), Middlebury College (Vermont), the Pennsylvania State University, Salem State University (Massachusetts), and Western Washington University. Oregon Health & Science University, and Chief Dull Knife College (Montana) were also recognized as top producers among special focus institutions and tribal colleges, respectively. Fulbright U.S. Scholars are faculty, researchers, administrators, and established professionals who teach or conduct research in affiliation with institutes abroad.

The institutions with the highest number of U.S. Students within their classification were Bowdoin College (Maine), Georgetown University (District of Columbia), the University of North Georgia, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Illinois).  Fulbright U.S. Students are recent college graduates, graduate students, and early career professionals who participate in study/research exchanges or serve as English teaching assistants in local schools abroad.

Twelve institutions had the distinction of being a top producer of both Fulbright U.S. Students and U.S. Scholars: Arizona State University, Bowdoin College (Maine), the George Washington University (District of Columbia), Middlebury College (Vermont), North Carolina State University at Raleigh, Reed College (Oregon), Rollins College (Florida), School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Illinois), the University of Alabama, University of Maryland – College Park, University of Massachusetts – Amherst, and University of Southern California.

For more information and stories about the Fulbright Top Producing Institutions, and to view the full list of institutions, visit the Fulbright Top Producing Institutions website.

Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided over 400,000 talented and accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals of all backgrounds with the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research abroad. Fulbrighters exchange ideas, build people-to-people connections, and work to address complex global challenges.

Fulbright is a program of the U.S. Department of State, with funding provided by the U.S. Government. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support.

Interested media should contact the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at eca-press@state.gov.

JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION® NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ITS 2024 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The nonprofit will distribute over half a million dollars in scholarships, tuition waivers, and grants—funding the education of future restaurant industry leaders

NEW YORK – The James Beard Foundation® (JBF) announced today that applications for its 2024 Scholarship Program are now open. The Scholarship Program—an annual initiative aimed at supporting aspiring culinary students, future restaurateurs, beverage professionals, and more—will offer more than $500,000 to recipients this year.

With the independent restaurant industry at its most stable since before the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a renewed interest and excitement in the culinary arts among young professionals, resulting in nearly a 10% increase in enrollment in 2-year culinary programs between 2022 and 2023. The JBF Scholarship Program supports the life cycle of a culinary career, providing financial assistance to both emerging and established culinary talent looking to further their education at a licensed or accredited culinary school, hospitality institution, college, or university. As of 2024, JBF will have awarded nearly $10 million in financial aid to over 2,000 recipients, thanks in part to a new offering from HexClad and existing partnerships.

“The mission of the James Beard Foundation is to celebrate and support the people behind America’s food culture, while creating a future where all have the opportunity to thrive,” said Dr. Anne E. McBride, Vice President of Programs, James Beard Foundation. “As the country’s leading culinary nonprofit supporting independent restaurants, we are proud that our Scholarship Program offers this foundational support for aspiring culinary professionals at the very start of their careers.”

Scholarship award amounts range from $5,000 to $20,000, and eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Applicants, generally, must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a program at a licensed or accredited culinary school, hospitality institution, college, or university in Fall 2024. International students may also qualify for many of the scholarships and are encouraged to apply. Previous recipients are also eligible to apply again, and interested applicants are eligible to apply for more than one scholarship. There is no application fee required.

This year, JBF will offer three basic types of scholarship awards in the categories of Culinary and Pastry Arts, Wine Studies, and Food Systems. The types of awards are:

• Scholarships: Cash grants applied to tuition and, on a case-by-case basis, other school-related expenses
• Tuition Waivers: Tuition waivers granted by educational institutions, which are renewable in some cases
• Work Study Grants: Grants for working culinary professionals that cover expenses from programs offering experiential learning at farms, fisheries, wineries, and other venues of food production, under the auspices of the Jean-Louis Palladin Professional Work/Study Grant

Below is a selection of the scholarships JBF will be offering for the 2024 year:

• The Debbie Lewis Women in Wine Scholarship: The Debbie Lewis Women in Wine Scholarship honors the life of vintner Debbie Lewis. Debbie had a lifelong passion for mastering the business of wine and set an inspiring example of dedication and hard work to all those around her. Students who are women over the age of 21 who reside in the U.S. and are planning to enroll or are currently enrolled in a beverage, wine studies, hospitality management, master sommelier, or culinary program at an accredited culinary school, hospitality institution, college, or university will qualify. Up to one [1] scholarship of $5,000 will be granted.
• HexClad Culinary Scholarship: The HexClad Culinary Scholarship is open to women and BIPOC individuals who reside in the United States and are accepted into or enrolled in an accredited Culinary program. Up to 2 scholarship(s) of $12,500 each will be granted. Please note that there are promotional opportunities associated with this scholarship.
• The JBF Visit San Antonio Culinaria Scholarship Fund: The JBF Visit San Antonio Culinaria Scholarship Fund, funded by the Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival, is open to women and BIPOC individuals who reside in the state of Texas and are pursuing a degree at an accredited institution in culinary, pastry, restaurant management, or wine studies. Up to six [6] scholarships of $10,000 will be granted.
• The JBF National Scholars Scholarship: The JBF National Scholars Program, which launched in 2016, provides ten [10] high-impact scholarships of $20,000 each to food-focused candidates of exceptional talent. Candidates for the 10 National Scholarships are selected according to academic merit, personal and professional recommendations, and demonstration of the potential for leadership roles in culinary arts, food studies, agriculture, hospitality management, and related fields. To ensure regional diversity of this national program, one [1] awardee will be selected from each of the 10 geographic regions defined by the JBF Awards.

The Scholarship Program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS), an independent company that specializes in managing sponsored educational assistance programs. ISTS hosts the online application process, vets the initial candidates for eligibility, and disburses awards to recipients on the Foundation’s behalf. The JBF Scholarship Selection Committee reviews the semifinalists and approximately 40 recipients are selected. The deadline to apply is April 5, 2024.

For more information about the program and to apply, visit jamesbeard.org/scholarships.

About the James Beard Foundation

The James Beard Foundation (JBF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive. Established over 30 years ago, the Foundation has highlighted the centrality of food culture in our daily lives and is committed to supporting a resilient and flourishing industry that honors its diverse communities. By amplifying new voices, celebrating those leading the way, and supporting those on the path to do so, the Foundation is working to create a more equitable and sustainable future—what we call Good Food for Good®. JBF brings its mission to life through the annual Awards, industry and community-focused programs, advocacy, partnerships, and events across the country. Coming soon, for the first time in the Foundation’s history, exceptional culinary talent, industry leaders, and visitors from NYC and beyond can experience unforgettable dining and educational programming at Pier 57—inspiring food and beverage devotees for decades to come. Learn more at jamesbeard.org, sign up for our newsletter, and follow @beardfoundation on social media.

About James Beard Foundation Programs

The James Beard Foundation’s Programs help the independent restaurant industry reach new standards around equity, sustainability, and workplace practices to ensure that all involved in its supply chain can thrive. We look to turn independent restaurant jobs into long and healthy independent restaurant careers; to expand who has access to leadership, visibility, financial stability, and capital; and to use the power of chefs for climate change mitigation and other issues that touch our food system. Our mission comes to life through training programs, policy advocacy, and harnessing the agency of chefs for change.

The Obama Foundation Opens Applications for the 2024-2026 Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service

The scholarship supports students interested in pursuing public service careers with an academic scholarship, travel-based learning, and connections to a network of leaders

CHICAGO – Today, the Obama Foundation opened applications for the 2024-2026 Voyager Scholarship, The Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service. Funded by a $100 million personal contribution from Airbnb Co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky to the Obama Foundation, the Voyager Scholarship provides college students with last-dollar financial aid to help alleviate the burden of college debt, meaningful travel experiences to expand their connections to new communities, and a network of mentors and leaders to support them throughout their careers.

As the Voyager Scholarship enters its third year, the Obama Foundation and Chesky remain committed to supporting young leaders who can bridge divides and help solve our biggest challenges together. The Voyager scholarship supports students as they refine their values-based leadership approach, gain access to new experiences that broaden their horizons, and nurture their sense of curiosity as they deepen their commitment to pursuing public service careers. As part of the program, Voyager Scholarship recipients receive a $10,000 stipend and free housing through Airbnb to pursue a summer work-travel experience, or “Summer Voyage,” between their junior and senior years of college. Students design their own Summer Voyage to gain exposure to new communities and experience in a chosen field. Last summer, the inaugural cohort of Voyager Scholarship recipients collectively traveled to 23 U.S. states and territories and 63 countries around the world in 2023. Students engaged in internships, volunteer experiences, and research opportunities to deepen their understanding of the issues they are most passionate about. Here are some inspiring stories from our soon-to-be graduating, inaugural cohort of Voyager Scholarship recipients:

• Gretchen North (2022-2024 Voyager) – Supporting Education in Kenya and Panama: Gretchen North, a Conservation Biology and Environmental Education student at the University of Minnesota, used her Summer Voyage to lead an environmental education workshop series in Kenya and Panama, covering topics such as rainforest conservation, grassland ecology, and permaculture. As part of the experience, Gretchen partnered with 2018-2019 Obama Scholar Juan Carlos Monterrey Gómez, the Executive Director of Panama’s Geoversity. The hands-on experiences during her months abroad have profoundly influenced her journey as a young public service leader, providing insights that will shape her future career decisions and foster a deep sense of love and community that she intends to carry throughout her life.
• Kennedi Roberts (2022-2024 Voyager) Implementing Programming to Support Youth Mental Health: Kennedi Roberts, a student at Howard University majoring in Psychology, had a transformative Summer Voyage working with an organization in Los Angeles, California, that supports youth who have had encounters with the criminal justice system. There, she supported summer programming and helped facilitate a wilderness expedition that provided adventure therapy for young people in Boulder, Utah. This experience has fueled Kennedi’s desire to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology after graduation this May.
• Yasmin Nayrouz (2022-2024 Voyager) – Leveraging Communications for Change in Italy, the United Kingdom, Washington, DC: Yasmin Nayrouz, a Syracuse University student majoring in English and Public Relations, traveled across Italy, the United Kingdom, and Washington, D.C. for her Summer Voyage. In Italy, she interned with an immigration law firm, learning about the rights of refugees and how the E.U. has been responding to high levels of migration. In London, she worked to empower immigrants through cooking classes, and participating in U.K. government events on migration. And in Washington, D.C., Yasmin honed her communications skills to support migrant communities. This experience solidified her commitment to combating xenophobia and promoting inclusivity in her future public service career.

To learn more about the previous recipients of the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service and to see highlights from the program, visit voyager-scholarship.obama.org. The application deadline for the Voyager Scholarship for Public Service is Thursday, March 27, 2024, at 11:59 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6). The Obama Foundation will award the scholarship to 100 students from colleges and universities across the United States and its territories. Voyager Scholarship for Public Service recipients receive:

• Up to $50,000 in financial aid: Students will receive up to $25,000 per year in “last dollar” financial aid for their junior and senior years of college. This financial aid should help alleviate the burden of college debt so that students can afford to pursue a career in public service.
• Summer Voyage: Students will receive a $10,000 stipend and free housing through Airbnb to pursue a summer work-travel experience between their junior and senior year of college. The students will design their own Summer Voyage to gain exposure to new communities and experience in a chosen field.
• 10-year travel stipend: After graduation, Airbnb will provide the students with a $2,000 Airbnb travel credit every year for 10 years, totaling $20,000. This will allow students to continue to broaden their horizons and forge new connections throughout their public service careers.
• Monthly Virtual Sessions: Students must participate in monthly virtual programming sessions, including speaker series and mentorship roundtables, Summer Voyage design workshops, and Summer Voyage coaching sessions, to ensure they have the most meaningful experience possible.
• Fall Summit: During their Junior Year, Voyagers may have the option to attend an in-person convening where they will engage in community building activities with fellow Voyagers, build their leadership skills, and learn from experienced leaders in public service.
• Network of leaders: Throughout the program, students will be invited to an ongoing speaker series, giving them access to a network of leaders. This network of leaders will expose them to new areas of service and innovations happening in their fields. After graduation, they will join the Obama Foundation’s global community, providing them with Foundation resources and programming.

For more information about the Voyager Scholarship, including the application process and answers to frequently asked questions, visit voyager-scholarship.obama.org. For more updates from the Obama Foundation, follow us on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram.

###

Contact
Gloria Nlewedim
press@obama.org

Macmillan Learning Launches Awards with Cash Prize to Honor Extraordinary Economics Student and Instructor

New York, NY; Jan. 24, 2024 –  Macmillan Learning, a privately-held, family-owned educational publishing and services company, announced today it will mark its 15th year hosting the EconEd Summit with new awards recognizing innovation within the Economics community. Macmillan Learning will honor a remarkable Economics student and instructor with the new EconEd award, which comes with a $2,500 prize and an all-expenses-paid trip to the conference, scheduled to take place on September 27-28 in Chicago.

“As Economics plays an integral role in nearly every aspect of our lives, its significance sometimes goes unnoticed. With these awards, we aim to shine a spotlight on the students and instructors who not only illuminate this crucial subject but also ignite curiosity among students,” said Scott Guile, Executive Marketing Manager, at Macmillan Learning.

The EconEd Student Award will honor an undergraduate Economics student who demonstrates exceptional academic achievements and makes noteworthy contributions to their community through their Economics acumen. Impactful community involvement could involve mentoring/tutoring, contributing to research initiatives, supporting students’ economic literacy, writing about economic issues, or other activities.

The EconEd Instructor Award will celebrate innovation in the teaching of Principles of Economics. Whether through cutting-edge technology, interactive projects, gamification, community involvement, tailored learning experiences, or inventive assessment techniques, this award celebrates those who are redefining economics education.

The awards are open to students and instructors in U.S. colleges. Students should have a declared major or minor in Economics. Applications for both awards are open until April 1, with winners announced mid-May.

EconEd is a platform for professional development, knowledge sharing, and community building among Economics instructors. Over the years, the conference has featured distinguished figures within the Economics community, including Paul Krugman, Justin Wolfers, Betsey Stevenson, Tyler Cowen, Alex Tabarrok, Eric Chiang, and many more, fostering a legacy of rich academic discourse and thought leadership. These Macmillan Learning authors represent a range of diverse economic perspectives and insights and collectively have more than 150 years experience at leading colleges around the world.

This year’s EconEd Summit will focus on the intersection of government policies and Economics, with sessions examining topics like the discrepancy between consumer attitudes and economic data. Peer consultants, Macmillan Learning, and Macmillan Learning CEO Susan Winslow will present during the summit. More information about the conference is available here.

About Macmillan Learning
Macmillan Learning is a privately-held, family-owned company that inspires what’s possible for every learner. We envision a world in which every learner succeeds. Through our content, tools and services, we aim to make that a reality. To learn more, please visit macmillanlearning.com or join our Macmillan Community.

Media Contact
Marisa Bluestone
Macmillan Learning
202-699-1495
marisa.bluestone@macmillan.com

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Accepting Applications for 2024 Awards Program

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society—is currently accepting applications for its 2024 awards program including Scholar, Artist and Distinguished Service Awards, Pioneer Awards, Study Abroad Grants, Literacy Grants, Fellowships and Love of Learning Awards. These awards provide funding for undergraduate and graduate study, continuing education, professional development, studies abroad and local, national and international literacy initiatives.

Since 1932, Phi Kappa Phi’s awards program has recognized members and students on its chapter campuses for outstanding academic achievement. Currently, $1.3 million is awarded annually through programs that last year recognized 485 individuals.

Programs currently accepting applications include:

• Scholar and Artist: A life membership and a $1,000 donation to a nonprofit cause will be awarded to individuals who demonstrate the ideals of the Society through their lifelong activities, achievements and scholarship. The deadline to apply is Feb. 1.
• Distinguished Service: A life membership and a $1,000 donation to a nonprofit cause will be awarded to an individual who has provided sustained, non-compensated volunteer service to others beyond the realm of academia. The deadline to apply is Feb. 1.
Study Abroad Grants: 125 grants of $1,000 each will be awarded to both members and non-members studying abroad. The deadline to apply is March 15.
• Literacy Grants: Grants of up to $2,500 are available to Phi Kappa Phi chapters and individual members seeking funding for literacy initiatives. The deadline to apply is April 1.
• Pioneer Awards: 50 $1,000 awards are available to undergraduate members for developing the research, engagement, and leadership skills necessary to become a successful scholar. The Deadline to apply is June 1.
• Fellowships: 62 Fellowships are available each year – two at $35,000, six at $20,000 and fifty-four of $8,500 each to members entering the first year of graduate or professional study. The deadline to apply varies by each Phi Kappa Phi chapter. Contact your local chapter for deadline information.
• Love of Learning Awards: 200 awards at $500 each, are available to help fund post-baccalaureate studies and professional development for active members. The deadline to apply is June 30.

“I am deeply humbled to have been selected as a recipient of the 2023 Pioneer Award. Winning this award means a lot to me; not only does it recognize my past and present achievements, but it also fuels the trajectory of my future career and endeavors,” said Isac Kaba, Pioneer Award recipient.

For more information including eligibility requirements and application instructions for each program, please visit www.phikappaphi.org/awards.

About Phi Kappa Phi

Founded in 1897, Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Phi Kappa Phi inducts approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni annually. The Society has chapters on more than 325 select colleges and universities in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of juniors. Faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction also qualify. The Society’s mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.” For more information, visit www.phikappaphi.org.

###

Media Contact
Alyssa Papa
Director of Communications
apapa@phikappaphi.org
(225) 923-7777

A Letter to College Students: Ten Ways to Side with Humanity

A Letter to College Students: Ten Ways to Side with Humanity

By Lonnie Ali and Daniel Lubetzky

Over the past two months, people of all races, ethnicities, and religions have experienced enormous pain and suffering. Acts of terror, war, and ensuing hatred have deepened the cracks that were already threatening to divide our communities.

You, our nation’s young people, have been implicated in this. The campuses on which you live, learn, and strive to become the people you want to be, have turned into battlegrounds. Some of you are angry. Some are scared for your lives. Others feel confused and alone.

This is not your fault. It is not one group’s fault. Extremist ideologies sow division wherever they go.

Most of you are not radical. We see you. Most of you are compassionate. We hear you. The overwhelming majority of you want to supplant the forces that divide, destroy, and diminish with ones that unite, build, and bring light to the world. You want to replace polarization with problem-solving to benefit all people.

As a passionate Muslim and a passionate Jew, we have come together to humbly share a path forward for how to transcend the construct of “us vs. them” and side with humanity instead.

1. It helps, not hurts, your cause to empathize with the pain of the other side.

While it is normal to experience deeply the pain of our own people, we can do this while also acknowledging the suffering on the other side. Especially when you and your people are hurting, empathizing with “the other side” can feel like a betrayal of your people and their pain. But any time we recognize others’ distress, we reaffirm to one another our shared humanity, which increases the likelihood of building bridges for our own people. If instead, we choose not to acknowledge that mutual hurt, we perpetuate dehumanization on all sides.

2. You cannot advance social justice if you tolerate hate in any form.

We strengthen social justice when we take the moral high ground and condemn all forms of violent absolutism. We undermine our causes when we side with radical extremists whose only real cause is hate. By acting with hate ourselves, we unwittingly advance extremist agendas and fuel increased opposition to our cause.

3. To effectively solve problems, you must understand the other side’s thinking.

Problem-solving requires the ability to think and listen critically. To devise constructive solutions, we need to consider counter-ideas, question our own assumptions, and be open to changing our minds. Listening critically doesn’t mean abandoning your beliefs. Even if we emerge feeling more convinced of our own stance, we will be more effective in advancing our position if we understand the thought process of those who see issues differently.

4. Absolutist solutions condemn everyone to endless suffering.

Absolutist solutions that deny the humanity or rights of the other side will never fulfill the aspirations of our own people. For peace to prevail, both sides must be willing to search for consensus and ask themselves what concessions they are willing to make so that both sides can live with security, freedom, and dignity. When instead, we take an “all or nothing” position, we condemn all people on both sides to never-ending conflict.

5. Alliances are necessary for conflict to end.

Civil society will never move forward until people of different races, ethnicities, and religions build alliances across perceived divides. If we are serious about forging a future in which people live in harmony, we must reach out to those from outside our group and team up behind the shared objectives of freedom and peace. If you don’t see an existing group in which alliances are possible, form a new one in which partnerships across division enable you to solve problems concretely and constructively.

6. To get the full story, pop your social media bubble.

Division and conflict are fueled by siloed media consumption. When each side exclusively sees its own narrative, this creates two opposite realities that make solution-building impossible. Furthermore, solely consuming one perspective fosters extremism by affirming absolute righteousness without leaving room to understand the other side. To counter this, start following social media accounts that share different points of view. You don’t have to stop consuming your own news, but you should mix up your feed to get the full picture – even if it’s painful.

7. To stay grounded and well, avoid social media when you can.

Social media algorithms amplify extremism and promote overly simplistic explanations to complex issues. To stop fueling this hatred and division, dramatically limit your time on social media altogether. Fill the newly available time with building authentic relationships and connecting with people and activities that keep you grounded. This will support your mental health, happiness, and overall wellbeing, setting you up to more effectively solve problems.

8. Make curiosity, compassion, and courage part of your daily routine.

Your problem-solving toolkit is curiosity, even for ideas you feel inclined to disagree with; compassion, even for people who you find it hard to forgive; and the courage to transcend divides and work together. Just as you may work out or practice self-care and other routines, make it a daily habit to strengthen your muscles for “The Three Cs.” Start to reexamine and concertedly address how you show up in the world, particularly in moments of tension and conflict.

9. When engaging in DEI initiatives, learn the lessons deeply.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts can promote inclusivity and understanding so long as we engage with them deeply. If we superficially learn to stop hating one group instead of addressing the root causes of all hate toward all people, there is no guarantee we won’t replace one form of bigotry with another. DEI programs should educate all of us on the dangers of extremist ideology wherever it exists, including within our own groups. By fostering intellectual pluralism, they should help us to fight all forms of racism and discrimination.

10. Muster the courage to transform moderation into BUILDING.

The overwhelming majority of people don’t cause problems, but we aren’t the ones getting them solved either. This is a problem, because a world in which good people stand on the sidelines is a world in which evil overpowers. To build a future in which all people can live together in dignity, we must join as Builders to overcome the forces that divide, destroy, and diminish. In their place, we must unite, build, and bring light to the world.

To all those seeking to build toward a future in which all people can live together in dignity, we stand with you as Builders. If you are looking for access to tools, resources, and opportunities to create solutions on campus, please visit www.startswith.us/campusbuilders.

+++

Five Tips for Embracing the Season: A Guide to Safeguarding Your Mental Health When You Head Home for the Holidays

The holiday season is often portrayed as a festive time full of family, friends, and joy. But for some teens and young adults, visiting family, celebrating holidays together, and navigating gatherings can be a source of emotional stress. If you have those feelings, you’re not alone. In recent years, the American Psychiatric Association has found that younger adults were more likely than older adults to say their stress levels increased during the holiday season, and their parents experienced similar emotions.

“When traveling home or leaving school for the holidays, it’s common to experience a mix of emotions ranging from joy and excitement to stress and anxiety,” said Dr. Kurt Michael, adolescent suicidologist and Senior Clinical Director at The Jed Foundation (JED). “Knowing that can help you prepare for challenging situations and take care of yourself.”

Whether you’re heading home from college for the first time or visiting family you haven’t seen in a while, JED, a leading national nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults, is sharing easy-to-use tips on how to take care of yourself during the holidays.

Make a Plan

If you feel stressed before the holidays, make a plan to take care of yourself ahead of time. It could include being kind to yourself, planning for downtime, taking a break from social media, moving your body, getting outside, or listening to a relaxing playlist.

Connect With Loved Ones

Although the holiday season brings many families together, some struggle with unresolved tensions, difficult family relationships, or distressing conversations that repeatedly occur at family gatherings. Setting boundaries and making a plan to navigate these conversations and communicate honestly with family members, including sharing how you may be struggling, can help reduce or manage tension and increase connection.

Recognize and Manage Triggers

Holidays can also be an extra challenge for those trying to stick with their recovery goals for eating disorders or supporting their sobriety. Dealing with grief or loss of a loved one can be especially tough this time of year, making coping practices and self-care really important.

Be Kind to Yourself

It can be hard to prioritize self-care when you’re with family or in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but take the time you need to rest and recharge. Prioritize sleep, moving your body, nourishing yourself, and setting boundaries. 

Ask for Help

Reach out to people you trust if you need support navigating the holiday season. Look to friends, family members, or mental health professionals for help navigating challenges such as religious bullying, loneliness, and depression.

To learn more about how you can invest in your emotional well-being, visit JED’s Mental Health Resource Center and resource hub for taking care of yourself, lowering stress, and finding joy during the holidays.

This is intended only as a resource and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health-care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or a mental health, suicide, or substance-use crisis, reach out 24/7 to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by dialing or texting 988 or using chat services at suicidepreventionlifeline.org to connect to a trained crisis counselor. 

For more information on The Jed Foundation or its Mental Health Resource Center, please visit jedfoundation.org.

Media Contact
Justin Barbo
Director of Public Relations
The Jed Foundation
Justin@jedfoundation.org
914-844-4611

William Bowerman Receives Inaugural Phi Kappa Phi Sabbatical Award

William “Bill” Bowerman, professor of wildlife ecology and toxicology at the University of Maryland, College Park, has been selected by The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines—as the inaugural recipient of the Phi Kappa Phi Mary Todd Sabbatical Award.

The $50,000 Sabbatical Award, named for former Society Executive Director, Dr. Mary Todd, honors one faculty member to support a sabbatical year or similar reassignments of duties. Bowerman will use the funds from the award to conduct research on the effect of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and its transmission to domestic poultry flocks.

Bowerman intends on conducting research both locally and nationally, in hopes of creating new collaborations across five continents and bringing together some of the largest and longest data sets on populations of sea eagles. “I had a big dream for my sabbatical, this award will make it a reality,” said Bowerman.

The selection process for a Sabbatical Award is based on applicant letter addressing the significance of the proposed research or other scholarly project and the relevance of the proposed activity in contributing to Phi Kappa Phi’s mission of recognizing and promoting academic excellence in all fields of higher education and engaging the community of scholars in service to others.

“It is with great pleasure that we recognize Bill with Phi Kappa Phi’s inaugural Sabbatical Award. This new Phi Kappa Phi award was designed to recognize our faculty scholars and dedicated volunteers who demonstrate the Love of Learning throughout their career. We look forward to witnessing the continued impact of William’s extraordinary research and service activities well into the future,” said Society Executive Director and CEO Dr. Bradley R. Newcomer.

The Sabbatical Award is one of the newest additions to the Society’s robust portfolio of award and grant programs, which gives $1.3 million each year to outstanding students and members through graduate and dissertation fellowships, funding for post-baccalaureate development, and grants for local, national and international literacy initiatives. Phi Kappa Phi is proud to offer an award exclusively for undergraduates and this program is a welcome addition to the Society’s portfolio.

To learn more about the Society’s award programs, visit www.phikappaphi.org/awards. The application process for the 2024 Sabbatical Award will open in August 2024.

About Phi Kappa Phi
Founded in 1897, Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Phi Kappa Phi inducts approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni annually. The Society has chapters on more than 325 select colleges and universities in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of juniors. Faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction also qualify. The Society’s mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and engage the community of scholars in service to others.” For more information, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org.

Media Contact
Alyssa Papa
Director of Communications
apapa@phikappaphi.org
(225) 923-7777