2019-Interfaith Eckerd, Interfaith St. Petersburg

About the Project:

What kinds of religious communities are represented at Eckerd College and in St. Petersburg? How do these individuals and communities interact with one another, participate in civil society, and enrich the cultural diversity of the College and the Tampa Bay area? What are local stereotypes about religions? What are the possibilities for interfaith cooperation at Eckerd and in our neighborhood? How might students foster meaningful dialogues across differences?

This research associate will work with Professor Davina Lopez (Religious Studies) and Chaplain Doug McMahon (Center for Spiritual Life) to understand the religious landscape and possibilities for interfaith cooperation at Eckerd College and in St. Petersburg. Drawing on guidelines developed by the Interfaith Youth Core and Harvard University’s Pluralism Project, the associate will learn how to plan and conduct programs on religious identity and interfaith issues for the Eckerd College student body and learn how to converse with religious leaders and community members from a variety of backgrounds.

This research associate will make a significant contribution to ongoing national efforts to document the religious diversity of the United States and to nurture strategies for interfaith cooperation. Students from any or no religious background or affiliation will be welcome. What we seek is an open-minded associate who is ready to learn about different people and different worldviews from multiple perspectives. This project will enhance the learning of those interested in peace and justice issues, interracial relations, politics and international relations, urban studies, identity and cultural diversity, and education.

The First-Year Research Associate Program at Eckerd College honors academically outstanding students with awards of up to $1,000. The program also provides the opportunity, during the freshman year, for the award winners to work closely with a sponsor (faculty or administrative personnel) on a project of mutual interest. Associates might assist with research for faculty publication or new courses, conduct scientific experiments, work with creative artists, or develop projects related to any phase of the academic, cultural, and social life of the college. Scholars are selected on the basis of achievement in high school and on the creativity and depth of responses to items on this application.​

Online submission due no later than February 1, 2019.