The scholarship is designed to support a student who is planning to conduct research on the economic impact of workplace discrimination and retaliation. By addressing these critical issues, the scholarship aims to encourage a deeper understanding of how such inequities affect individuals, businesses, and the broader economy. It seeks to empower emerging leaders who are committed to tackling workplace injustices through rigorous research, meaningful scholarship, and impactful advocacy. This initiative hopes to inspire actionable change and foster more equitable work environments for all.
The program reflects Wanta Thome’s commitment to fostering the next generation of workplace justice advocates. By investing in students who show promise in this field, we aim to expand the body of knowledge surrounding workplace discrimination while developing future practitioners equipped to combat these issues.
Understanding the economic consequences of workplace discrimination is crucial for effective advocacy and policy reform. This scholarship supports students pursuing quantitative and qualitative research skills that will enable them to document, analyze, and address workplace inequities through data-driven approaches.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Level: Open to undergraduate juniors and seniors, and graduate students pursuing degrees in law (J.D.), public policy, economics, sociology, business, or related fields.
Academic Interest: Applicants must demonstrate interest in studying the economic consequences of workplace discrimination or retaliation, including topics such as:
- Lost wages and earnings analysis
- Economic impacts on industries, families, or communities
- Organizational or societal productivity losses
- Labor market discrimination studies
Commitment to Advocacy: Applicants should demonstrate an interest in workplace justice through academic coursework, internships, volunteerism, or personal projects.
Academic Standing: Minimum GPA of 3.5.
Location: Open to students nationwide, with preference for those studying at institutions in Minnesota or Illinois.
Application Requirements
(1) Academic Interest Statement (750-1,000 words):
Applicants must submit an essay addressing:
a) Academic Goals
- Your specific interest in workplace discrimination and economic justice
- Relevant coursework completed or planned
- Career aspirations in this field
- How you plan to contribute to workplace equity research in your future career
b) Educational Preparation
- Description of relevant academic projects or papers
- Research methods courses completed or planned
- Technical skills (e.g., statistical analysis, economic modeling) being developed
- Interdisciplinary approaches you’re pursuing
(2) Personal Statement (500–750 words):
Applicants must describe their broader commitment to workplace equity, their academic journey, and how the scholarship will support their goals.
(3) Academic Transcript:
Unofficial or official transcripts showing relevant coursework and academic standing.
Award Details
One $3,000 award annually.
Award Distribution:
- Funds disbursed in one payment at the beginning of the academic term
- May be used for:
- Tuition and academic fees
- Books and educational materials
- Statistical software or research tools
- Professional development activities
Required Documentation for Fund Distribution:
- Signed acceptance form
- Current enrollment verification
- Completed W-9 form (for tax purposes)
Award Timing/Deadlines
Applications open: January 15, 2025
Application deadline: May 31, 2025
Award announcement: July 15, 2025
How to Apply
Submit all required materials through wantathome.com/scholarship
Recognition
Recipients will be highlighted on the Wanta Thome website and social media platforms, celebrating their dedication to advancing workplace equity.
Selection Process
(1) Initial Review: All applications will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility criteria.
(2) Evaluation Criteria: Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Quality and clarity of the Academic Interest Statement
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace justice
- Academic performance and relevant coursework
- Potential to contribute to the field in their future career
- Extracurricular activities and leadership experience
(3) Selection Committee: A panel consisting of Wanta Thome attorneys and workplace justice advocates.
(4) Final Selection: Top applicants will be selected based on their overall fit with the scholarship’s mission and their potential for future impact in the field.
(5) Award Notification:
- Selected recipients will be notified by July 15 via email and phone
- Unsuccessful applicants will be notified via email by the end of May