Passionate Leaders Project
The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) supports undergraduate students seeking to enrich their academic and professional interests by funding student-initiated projects beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom.
The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) awards up to $4,000 to undergraduates seeking to enrich their academic and professional interests through self-directed independent research, creative endeavors, collaborative initiatives and internships with nonprofit, community, and/or government organizations.
Beyond taking classes, what scholarly, professional, or creative goals would you like to accomplish during your undergraduate career?
The PLP represents the summit of student-driven, independent learning at Simmons. As a PLP Scholar, you are passionate about confronting an issue, exploring an area of research, meeting a creative challenge, or finding a solution to a problem. You have developed a project with a clearly defined focus and objective, a thoughtful methodology, and a meaningful personal or professional impact. In addition, you have established conversation with a faculty mentor, professional supervisor, or external organization to help guide you through your process.
This award typically funds up to 10 projects per year. A strong proposal is likely to build upon the foundation of a previously-established relationship with a mentor or organization, previous engagement with the topic in question, and/or a demonstrated familiarity with the issue(s), research, or methodology in the field.
Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply. Although there is no GPA requirement to access PLP funding, students must be in good academic standing. Undergraduate students may receive PLP funding only once during their time at Simmons.
In general, a strong PLP proposal should demonstrate the following criteria:
- Initiative and the ability to self-direct and/or manage independent projects
- Clearly articulated focus, goals, process/methodology, and deliverables
- A realistic and flexible timeline
- A well-conceived budget that adheres to the Simmons Business Expense Policy and wage/stipend requirements
- Established support of a faculty mentor, professional supervisor, or outside organization
- High likelihood of IRB and/or travel approval, if applicable
Projects that demonstrate originality of thought and/or a meaningful contribution to a disciplinary field, communities, and/or societies, will be given priority.
The PLP offers up to $4,000 per project that can be used for project supplies; student wages of $15 per hour (if a wage is to be paid, the faculty mentor will need to hire the student); related professional development (i.e. memberships or conferences), and travel costs directly related to the research or creative endeavor. In rare instances, such as work that is conducted in collaboration with an outside organization that provides educational enrichment and/or teaches you skills and methods important for advancing in your profession, a stipend may be permitted in lieu of wages.
Through the PLP, scholars develop critical leadership skills, knowledge, and real-world experience that enable them to confront the challenges of an increasingly complex world. PLP projects add a competitive edge to your resume/LinkedIn profile and create opportunities to connect with professionals in your field.
The award term is from October 2024 to June 2025. Awards are disbursed as check payments mailed to the recipient’s address.
Applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are being accepted until October 15, 2025. We will consider proposals for projects being conducted between September 2024 - June 2025.
Applicants for the PLP will submit the following materials for consideration:
- Proposal Narrative
- Budget
- Resume
- Additional Materials (i.e. Internship Letter, IRB Approval)
After completing the project, students will be required to write a reflection that captures their experience and areas of personal and professional growth.
Read the full Proposal Guidelines.
Passionate Leadership Project in the News
Passionate Leadership Project Scholars
Wondering what kind of project to explore for the PLP? Read about the work of our current and past PLP scholars!
Dr. Nakeisha Cody
Director of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships