Our area oversees university grant programs and other initiatives designed to support research and teaching that addresses the complex spectrum of work on diversity, disparities and identity.

2023 Confluence Award

The William H. Danforth St. Louis Confluence Award (STLCA) is designed to elevate WashU’s investment in the St. Louis Region by encouraging and rewarding faculty research that enhances our impact in St. Louis. The STLCA will honor and recognize faculty members for ongoing and completed research that focuses on interdisciplinary community-based research that exemplifies impact, innovation, and deep engagement with the region.

A $50,000 cash prize will be given in recognition of faculty research initiatives. The awardee will have the opportunity to present their research, and celebrate with their colleagues and the community during a special award ceremony.

The application for 2023 has closed.


Distinguished Visiting Scholars Program

The Distinguished Visiting Scholars program brings to Washington University underrepresented minorities who have distinguished themselves as leaders and innovators in the academy, in business or in fields of endeavor.

Learn more about the Program and apply here »


COVID-19 Faculty Support Initiative

The Office of the Provost is pleased to announce the launch of a new program to support scholarship by Danforth Campus tenure-track and tenured faculty through the associate professor level in response to the pandemic. 

Jennifer Ingram (on left) instructs student.

This program will offer support in the form of course releases, as well as research and publication grants to eligible faculty. Additional supports, including faculty scholarships for NCFDD’s Faculty Success Program and writing retreats will also be provided through this program. These supports will be offered beginning in Fall 2022 and will extend through the Spring 2024.

Learn more about the Covid-19 Faculty Support Initiative »


Event Accommodations Fund

Student organizations and academic departments in need of funding to defray accommodations expenses for events speakers and attendees with disabilities may apply for funding. Requests must be made a minimum of three weeks prior to the event. You can expect a decision within ten business days of your request.

Learn more about the Event Accommodations Fund »