Main content start

CAS Announces the Recipients of its Faculty-Undergraduate Research Partnerships

The Center for African Studies has announced the recipients of its new Faculty-Undergraduate Research Partnerships, which pairs Stanford faculty with undergraduates to work collaboratively on innovative research projects. Up to three grants were awarded to faculty for the 2023-24 academic year. Each faculty member has received $4,000 to support their project, while each undergraduate research assistant will receive up to $2,500 for spring or summer quarter 2024. From tackling mental health challenges exacerbated by climate change in Kenya to exploring African literature's linguistic complexities, these projects promise fresh insights.

Project: Co-creation of a youth-facing CIRCLE platform in Kenya

 

We are thrilled to announce Desiree LaBeaud (Professor of Pediatrics - Infectious Diseases) and Brittany Delmoro Wray’s (Instructor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences) partnership with Gracemary Wanjiru Nganga (persuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology) for an exciting research project titled "Co-creation of a youth-facing CIRCLE platform in Kenya." This groundbreaking initiative aims to address the pressing mental health challenges exacerbated by climate change in Kenya. Together, they will develop innovative interventions and tools to foster resilience and emotional well-being within local communities, particularly among youth. With Gracemary's invaluable contribution, this project promises to make significant strides in understanding and mitigating the impact of climate change on mental health in Kenya.

Project: French Is Not My Mother Tongue

 

In another exhilarating endeavor, Vaughn Rasberry (Associate Professor of English) and Crystal Huiyi Peng (majoring in English and Data Science & Social Systems) are teaming up to explore the vibrant world of African literature in their captivating project, "French Is Not My Mother Tongue." Delving into the complexities of linguistic identity, they will examine how African and diasporic writers navigate the dominance of European colonial languages. Through their research, they aim to shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding African language and literature in the twenty-first century. With Crystal's expertise and enthusiasm, this project promises to uncover fascinating insights into the evolving landscape of African literary expression.

Project: McGregor Museum Heritage Partnership

 

Last but not least, we are delighted to announce Grant Parker’s (Associate Professor of Classics) collaboration with Dylan Kayin Little (persuing a Bachelor in History) and Alana Joy Okonkwo (persuing a Bachelor in Archaeology) for the McGregor Museum Heritage Partnership. Thanks to generous additional external funding, we are delighted to appoint two Research Assistants for this project, facilitating Dylan and Alana's involvement. Together, they will embark on an electrifying journey to digitize and curate historical treasures from the McGregor Museum in Kimberley, Northern Cape. Through their efforts, they aim to extend the museum's reach and enhance engagement with its rich collections, particularly focusing on the history of Kimberley and the Northern Cape. With Dylan and Alana's dedication and expertise, this project promises to bring history to life in thrilling new ways, enriching our understanding of South Africa's cultural heritage.