Alison L. Des Forges Scholarship for Continuing UB Students

[Undergraduate Law BA]

HUMAN RIGHTS AND SOCIAL JUSTICE SCHOLARSHIP

Alison L. Des Forges Scholarship for Continuing UB Students

Established in 2012 in honor of Alison L. Des Forges, this scholarship is awarded to graduates of Buffalo public or charter Schools who are full-time undergraduate students in their sophomore (30-59 credit hours) or junior (60-89 credit hours) years. Applicants must have strong academic credentials, and a commitment to human rights and social justice. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study or until graduation requirements are met provided the recipient maintains a minimum overall UB GPA of 3.00. Students in any major are eligible for apply. Finalists will be invited to participate in an interview via Zoom. The scholarship is available for 2026-2027.

Award: $5,000 per year. For more information, visit https://www.alisondesforges.org/faqs/

Applications open: Sunday, March 1, 2026. Application deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026.

Application materials must include:
1. Confirmation that you are a graduate of a Buffalo public or charter school.
2. A personal statement of 500-800 words demonstrating your awareness of the life and work of Alison Des Forges, your intent to study issues related to human rights and social justice, and an explanation of how this award would make a difference in your life and in the lives of others.
3. Two letters of recommendation: One from a professor; one from a coach, mentor or unrelated adult.
4. Unofficial transcript from the University at Buffalo and any previous colleges attended.
5. A list of your current extracurricular activities. Describe your involvement and any positions held.

Who was Dr. Alison L. Des Forges? Visit https://www.alisondesforges.org/life-legacy.
Alison Des Forges was an inspirational advocate for human rights and a forceful campaigner for public education in Buffalo. She was an influential historian of Central Africa, and the leading American voice in defense of human rights in Rwanda. She alerted the world to the early signs of genocide,and worked tirelessly to save people and persuade leaders in the world community to stop the killing.
Who has received the Scholarship? See https://www.alisondesforges.org/recipients.

What can the Scholarship be used for?
The scholarship may be used for any component of the cost of attendance as established by UB. Visit https://www.buffalo.edu/financialaid/costs/costs.html

Study Abroad Programs for Scholarship Recipients:
You may apply for additional funds for study abroad programs if you are awarded the Alison Des Forges Scholarship.

How do I Submit an Application?
Application and submission details are on the UB Scholarship Portal at: https://buffalo.academicworks.com/opportunities/19302
Applications accepted beginning March 1, 2026.

Questions? Email ALDScholarship@buffalo.edu.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026 AT MIDNIGHT

www.AlisonDesForges.org

ALD 2026 Sship Flyer Cont. Students-FINAL.pdf

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