The Good Trouble Fund at PLU
“If you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, do something.”
The late Rep. John Lewis’s often-used “good trouble” saying inspired the name of one of PLU’s newest resources for Black students — The Good Trouble Fund.
This fund was spearheaded by a group of PLU faculty who recognized that systemic resource inequities can negatively impact Black students. Awards from the fund begin to help Black students at PLU cover the hidden costs of college so they can fully participate and better thrive.
Background
Throughout the history of the US, African-Americans have routinely had limited access to resources or had resources removed from their communities. This injustice continues today – and sadly also exists in Higher Education. The hidden costs of college beyond tuition, books, room and board limit full participation in the university experience.
The Good Trouble Fund provides resources to support Black students for whom the hidden costs of college prevent them from full participation and thriving at PLU. At PLU this includes, but is not limited to, costs of books, study abroad, lab and art supplies, dues for professional associations, student/faculty research, fees for student club activities, and personal computers (or similar devices).
Impact
Since the fund was established in November 2020:
- 81 requests for funding have been received, totaling over $53,000 in student needs
- Most requests were for Course Materials. To date, thanks to the Fund and partnership with other areas on campus, the Center for Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability has secured all requested course materials for 30+ students for Spring term.
- Two students have been granted $500 each toward Study Away experiences.
- 6 students were granted up to $500 each for “Academic Thriving,” covering the cost of teaching endorsement fees, science lab fees, transportation to clinicals, and portfolios.
Faculty & Alumni Announcement
Faculty and alumni came together to record this video message ahead of Bjug Day 2020: