The Deborah Gray Scholars Program
Terms & Conditions

1. Program Purpose

The Deborah Gray Scholars Program (“the Program”) is established to honor the life, legacy, and professional contributions of Deborah Gray, longtime Managing Director of the Tuskegee History Center. The Program supports the development of emerging leaders committed to human rights, civil rights, social justice, civic engagement, and democratic participation. By participating, Scholars agree to uphold the values embodied by Ms. Gray’s work, including academic excellence, ethical leadership, and dedication to public service.

2. Eligibility and Application Requirements

Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria established by the Program. By submitting an application, the applicant affirms that:

  • All information provided is accurate, complete, and truthful.
  • Any misrepresentation may result in disqualification or removal from the Program.
  • The applicant understands the Program timeline:
    • Application Period: April 1 – May 31, 2026
    • Review & Selection: June 1 – June 30, 2026
    • Notification of Scholars: First week of July 2026
    • Program Duration: September 2026 – March 2027

3. Scholar Commitments

Selected Scholars agree to fully participate in all required Program activities, including:

  • Two-day civil rights pilgrimage to Montgomery, Selma, and Tuskegee
  • Six virtual mentorship and project-development sessions
  • In-person Colloquium at the Spring 2027 Symposium
  • Completion and presentation of an original scholarly or advocacy project
  • Active engagement in discussions, assignments, and collaborative work
  • Upholding standards of academic integrity, civic responsibility, and respect for peers, mentors, and community partners

Failure to meet participation requirements may result in dismissal from the Program.

4. Code of Conduct

Scholars must conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the Program’s mission and the legacy of Deborah Gray. This includes:

  • Demonstrating professionalism, respect, and inclusivity
  • Honoring the historical significance of the civil rights sites visited
  • Maintaining appropriate behavior during all virtual and in-person sessions
  • Avoiding harassment, discrimination, or disruptive conduct
  • Protecting the confidentiality of peers, mentors, and Program materials

Violations of the Code of Conduct may lead to removal from the program.

5. Academic and Project Expectations

Scholars agree to:

  • Produce original work for the Program’s Colloquium
  • Engage in research, writing, and project development with academic rigor
  • Collaborate constructively with mentors and fellow Scholars
  • Meet deadlines and follow submission guidelines

All work submitted must be the Scholar’s own unless otherwise permitted through collaboration guidelines.

6. Travel and Participation Requirements

For the civil rights pilgrimage and in-person Symposium:

  • Scholars must comply with all travel instructions, safety guidelines, and schedules provided by the Program.
  • Scholars are responsible for adhering to any health, safety, or identification requirements necessary for travel.
  • The Program reserves the right to modify travel plans due to safety, weather, or unforeseen circumstances.

7. Media, Photography, and Publication Consent

By participating, Scholars grant the Program permission to:

  • Photograph, record, or otherwise document Program activities
  • Use images, recordings, or written work for educational, promotional, or archival purposes
  • Publish Scholar names, bios, and project summaries in Program materials

Scholars may request exceptions in writing, subject to Program approval.

8. Intellectual Property

Scholars retain ownership of their original work. However, by participating, they grant the Program a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to:

  • Display, publish, or distribute their work for educational or promotional purposes
  • Archive their work as part of the Program’s historical record

Any commercial use will require separate written consent.

9. Program Modifications

The Program reserves the right to:

  • Adjust schedules, activities, or requirements
  • Modify the structure of mentorship sessions or the Symposium
  • Make changes necessary for safety, educational quality, or operational needs

Scholars will be notified of significant changes in a timely manner.

10. Withdrawal and Termination

A Scholar may withdraw from the Program with written notice. The Program may terminate participation if a Scholar:

  • Fails to meet participation or academic requirements
  • Violates the Code of Conduct
  • Provides false information during the application process
  • Engages in behavior inconsistent with the Program’s mission

Termination may affect eligibility for future Program opportunities.

11. Liability and Assumption of Risk

Participation in Program activities, including travel, involves inherent risks. By agreeing to these terms, Scholars acknowledge and accept responsibility for:

  • Their personal conduct
  • Compliance with safety instructions
  • Any risks associated with travel or participation

The Program is not liable for personal injury, loss, or damage except as required by law.

12. Acceptance of Terms

By submitting an application or accepting an offer to join the Deborah Gray Scholars Program, the applicant acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions.