www.isi.org/programs/fellowships/simon.html
The William E. Simon Fellowship for Noble Purpose is funded to encourage a fresh appreciation of the importance of the moral and spiritual dimensions of life for all people and cultures.  The Simon Fellowship is a $40,000 unrestricted grant awarded to those who have demonstrated passion, dedication, a high capacity for self-direction, and originality in pursuit of a goal that will strengthen civil society.  In addition, awards of $20,000 and $10,000 are made to two other outstanding graduating seniors.


Eligibility Requirements

  • Graduating senior.
  • All disciplines and fields of study are eligible to apply.
  • Grants may be used for graduate studies.
  • Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the mature conception of and passion for what they hope to accomplish as well as their academic records, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation.


General Information

The Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI) established the William E. Simon Fellowship for Noble Purpose to recognize graduating seniors who are pursuing lives dedicated to and distinguished by honor, generosity, service, and respect.  The fellowship is named for former U.S. Secretary of Treasury William E. Simon, a distinguished public servant and philanthropist.  The William E. Simon Fellowship is funded by the John Templeton Foundation, created by renowned investor Sir John Templeton.

The John Templeton Foundation serves as a philanthropic catalyst for discovery in areas engaging life’s biggest questions- from explorations into the laws of nature and the universe to questions on the nature of love, gratitude, forgiveness and creativity.  Through ISI’s William E. Simon Fellowship, the Templeton Foundation encourages a fresh appreciation of the importance of the moral and spiritual dimension of life for all people’s and cultures.  With ISI’s Culture of Enterprise initiative, the foundation identifies and publicizes the very best that has been written on economics and culture by young scholars worldwide in order to advance the cause of ordered liberty throughout the globe.

Examples of how recipients may use the award include:  engage directly in the civic life of their community; help to create opportunity for others, including job creation; advance their expertise; and fund the ultimate realization of their notable purpose.


Deadline Dates

January 16, 2012 Completed application, transcript, letters of recommendation, and narrative must be submitted to Intercollegiate Studies Institute.

June 2012 Simon Fellows are selected and announced.


Application Instructions

Application instructions and materials are available on the Intercollegiate Studies Institute website.  UM students are encouraged to notify the Office of Prestigious Awards and Fellowships about their intention to apply for the fellowship no less than one month before the national deadline so that an advisor can provide guidance and feedback on their application.