LAS continues strategic investment in education and research

Building on the success of last year's inaugural effort, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is continuing its Strategic Investment Program to support innovation and excellence in education and research. The program advances the college's strategic priorities by accelerating innovation, elevating academic excellence, and modernizing infrastructure across LAS. 

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In the 2026-2027 academic year, LAS will make the following investments: 

• $1.25 million will power strategic research initiatives, specifically INSURE (Interim Support for Upholding Research and Excellence) and PURSUE  (Program for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Exploration). In the 2025-2026 academic year, PURSUE awarded more than $250,000 to projects across the college that will expand access to transformative undergraduate research experiences. INSURE, which supports faculty whose research activities are at risk due to funding disruptions, transitional periods, or other challenges, directed nearly $1 million to 36 projects.  
• $750,000 for the Curiosity to Impact program, which catalyzes the development of innovative educational experiences and refreshes curricula to incorporate experiential learning, public engagement, and the application of AI. More than $1.15 million was awarded in spring 2026 to 15 inaugural C2I projects, including new online certificates, redeveloped courses, and new minors.  
• $750,000 in matching funds to support non-capital infrastructure upgrades that enhance the student and faculty experience. In the previous academic year, projects were completed in the English Building, Gender & Women’s Studies, Coble Hall, and Davenport Hall, with projects in the works in the Literatures, Cultures & Linguistics Building, Gregory Hall, Chem Annex and Noyes Laboratory, and Morrill Hall.  
• $250,000 for the Get Experience scholarship, which empowers LAS students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, explore career paths, and hone their professional skills. Last year 51 students received scholarship support that enabled them to explore career opportunities and build skills through hands-on learning.  

More information about how to apply for each program will roll out over the course of the academic year.