The Walt Whitman Initiative Susan Jaffe Tane Fellowship supports emerging scholars pursuing innovative research on Walt Whitman and his enduring cultural legacy. We welcome diverse approaches to Whitman studies including biographical, literary, historical, cultural, social, artistic, political, book design, digital humanities, and public scholarship projects at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

The selected Fellow receives: 

• $2,500 honorarium
• Dedicated scholar-mentor from WWI matched to research interests, providing monthly guidance throughout the fellowship year
• Access to premier archives and collections, including the Tane Whitman Research Library and introductions to NYC’s literary and archival community
• Professional development opportunities including a public presentation of research and potential contribution to WWI publications
• Travel support (non-local fellows): One roundtrip ticket to NYC for intensive archival research; (local fellows): One-to-Two nights hotel accommodation
• One-year fellowship period with ongoing support bridging traditional scholarship and public humanities

Open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing Whitman-related research. We particularly encourage applications from scholars bringing fresh perspectives and from historically underrepresented communities.

Submit the following as a single PDF to waltwhitmaninitiative@gmail.com by May 31, 2026:

• Research proposal (500 words maximum) describing your Whitman project, methodology, and how the fellowship will support your work
• Writing sample (10-20 pages) demonstrating scholarly or creative ability
• Curriculum vitae

• Application deadline: May 31, 2026
• First-round review: June 1-30, 2026
• Semifinalist notifications: June 30, 2026
• References requested: 1-2 references will be requested from semifinalists in early July
• Final interviews (if applicable): Mid-July 2026
• Award announcement: August 1, 2026
• Fellowship period: September 1, 2026 – August 31, 2027

Applications are reviewed by WWI’s Fellowship Committee and Board of Trustees using the following criteria:

• Strength and originality of research proposal
• Quality of writing sample
• Potential contribution to Whitman scholarship
• Feasibility and clarity of project plan

This fellowship honors Susan Jaffe Tane, distinguished WWI member and Whitman scholar, whose generous support makes this opportunity possible. The fellowship reflects WWI’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of Whitman scholars while expanding public understanding of Whitman’s democratic vision and literary legacy.

Please contact us at waltwhitmaninitiative@gmail.com