Purpose

The purpose of this fund is to offset the costs to attend a Teaching and learning (T&L) conference as part of a faculty member's continuous improvement plan.

Funding

Up to $1000 can be requested to support registration fees, airfare, hotel, and per diem to travel to a conference or workshop. Preference will be given to those who demonstrate evidence of matching funds. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis if there are available funds, however, requests for funding must be received at the CAFE office at least two months before travel begins. Funds must be returned if travel plans change from what was listed on the proposal. CAFE reserves the right to limit the number of grants awarded per semester.

Eligibility

All faculty are eligible to apply, but applicants cannot receive funding more than once every three semesters. For example, if you received funding in Fall 2019, you would not be eligible to receive funding again until Spring 2021.

Application Process

Prepare a one-page, single-spaced proposal that clearly identifies the conference or workshop name, location, dates, and a line-item budget. Provide a description of how the activities will benefit your professional development. Preference will be given to activities that offer multiple opportunities for professional development. Submit your proposal to cafe@mst.edu or drop it off at Library G8. Should your plans change for any reason, you must re-submit an application to a new conference or experience.

Expectations

If your request is funded, a one-page report is required upon your return describing the conference activities and outcomes and how you plan to use the knowledge from the experience in your classes. Questions can be directed to the CAFE office by emailing cafe@mst.edu, calling (573) 341-6713, or visiting Library G8.

Evaluation

Awards will be determined based on: 

• Potential benefits from the conference or workshop. Presenting your educational research is an example that will help your proposal. 
• Explanation of how your participation in the conference or workshop fits into your overall plan for continuous improvement and achieving your goals. 
• Preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate evidence of matching funds.