The Gupta Values Scholarship
The Gupta Values Scholarship Fund was established by the Gupta Family Foundation in 2017 in order to recognize integrity, commitment to human dignity, and dedication to excellence among graduate students at U-M. As the founders of the Gupta Family Foundation, Rackham alumna Margaret Gupta (M.A., Political Science) and her husband, Shashikant, wish to encourage the next generation of scholars to be agents for positive social change.
Eligibility
Any graduate student enrolled in a Rackham master’s or doctoral program and in good academic standing is eligible for the Gupta Values Scholarship. Students may receive this award only one time.
Selection Criteria
Award recipients will have demonstrated integrity in the face of challenges, a commitment to human dignity, and a dedication to excellence in all they do both inside and outside the academy.
Deadline
September 5, 2024
Award Description
Two awards of $7,500 will be made for spring/summer support. Awardees will be expected to travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with representatives of the Gupta Family Foundation and Gupta Value Scholars from other universities. This travel will be April 4 to 6, 2025.
Application Process
A complete application will include:
- An essay of up to 1,500 words that addresses the following:
- The Gupta Values Scholarship is awarded based on applicants’ demonstrated commitment to the values of integrity, human dignity, and excellence.
- Please describe a situation in your life where one (or more) of these values was challenged and how you handled it.
- As an example, if you were put in a position where telling the truth would place you at risk, how did you respond?
- As another example, how did you handle a situation where your or someone else’s dignity was being harmed by a person in a position of power?
- Please be specific; avoid generalities.
- Letter of recommendation from the applicant’s faculty advisor noting how the applicant demonstrates integrity, commitment to human dignity, and dedication to excellence.
- Student’s curriculum vitae (c.v.).
Expectations and Responsibilities
- Award recipients will attend a dinner at Rackham on Thursday, October 17, 2024, to meet with representatives of the Gupta Family Foundation and Rackham Dean Mike Solomon.
- Awardees are also expected to travel to Washington, D.C., from Friday, April 4, through Sunday, April 6, 2025, to participate in the Gupta Values Scholars weekend, including trips to historical sites, discussions, and presentations. Air transportation, admission fees, and other costs are covered.