SUSI

SUSI - Simpson Urban Studies Institute

The Simpson Urban Studies Institute (SUSI) provides Simpson students, faculty, and staff with the capabilities to conduct research that documents urban issues that can lead to program and resource development in conjunction with Iowa urban agencies and communities. Students from all Academic Divisions and Departments of the College are encouraged to apply for a research grant. Research in the natural and social sciences is distinct from research in the humanities or fine arts. A creative activity proposal from students in the fine arts does qualify as a research activity. Students are encouraged to submit proposals for funding of their proposals to Fred Jones, SUSI¹s Research Director. Applications need to be submitted to:
fred.jones@simpson.edu

Grant Application Requirements

Student proposals are to include the following information for the SUSI Faculty Advisory Committee evaluation:

  1. Project Title
  2. Project Narrative: Description of the proposed project with elaboration on the need (s) justifying the project.
  3. Project Plan: How do you intend to address the need(s) identified in (2) and what benefits might result from addressing the need(s) in your research.
  4. Project Implementation: Staged implementation plan (dates anticipated for completion of stages) indicating the steps to be taken in completing the project within the time frame of the project (summer, summer and fall semester, academic year). This should include the presentation of the final product to the SUSI Research Director.
  5. Project Budget: This should include travel, materials, photocopying, postage, printing, equipment, living costs for summer. Students are encouraged to arrange for the public presentation of their final product at a professional meeting such as Simpson Spring Research Symposium, NCUR, the Iowa Sociological Associations undergraduate paper competition, etc.

Grant Award Process

The SUSI Faculty Advisory Committee will review and grade all proposals. The committee will give priority to projects that:

  • Incorporate the talents of multiple students in research
  • Demonstrate a benefit for the Des Moines metropolitan, other urban communities in Iowa, and the state of Iowa.

SUSI Projects

Simpson Prison Education Initiative

“Needs Analysis of Des Moines River Bend Neighborhood”

“Mitchellville: Voices from the Inside I”

“Mitchellville: Voices from the Inside II”

“Urban Anthropology: Cultural Sensitivity Project”

“Urban Mural” Scholarly Activity

“Transformation Experiences and Study Abroad Opportunities”

“Comparison of Bench and Jury Trial Outcomes for Minority Defendants”

“Micro-entrepreneurs: Poverty Alleviation and Community Building”

 

Last Updated: 4/25/12