UNE announces $100,000 Davis Educational Foundation Grant for writing instruction

An important program designed to fully integrate and enhance writing instruction into University of New England's undergraduate core curriculum recently received funding support from the Davis Educational Foundation.  

With the generous $100,000 two-year grant, UNE's writing integration project will improve the curriculum and learning environment, enhance assessment of undergraduate learning outcomes, and provide opportunities for faculty development.

Developing effective writing and communication skills is perhaps the most commonly accepted goal of higher education, yet national studies have shown that only a small percentage  of college students graduate with the writing skills necessary for career growth.  

Critical Thinking

The capacity to write effectively is a major component in learning to think with clarity and to analyze complex problems, commonly referred to as "critical thinking."  Employers often identify the ability to write effectively as one of the most significant skills they seek in the workforce.

The Davis Educational Foundation grant will enable UNE to hire a recognized expert in the teaching of writing and rhetoric and to lead faculty in a comprehensive effort to integrate effective writing instruction into the core curriculum.

In recruiting this individual, the university will look for national recognized expertise, such as affiliation with the Council of Writing Program Administrators, a national association of writing professionals with interests in developing and directing writing programs.

Integrated Model

UNE's Dean of College of Arts & Sciences Arthur Goldstein, Ph.D., has outlined a new and integrated model to increase the efficacy of writing instruction, working with a team of core faculty across six academic departments.  This team is now prepared to implement a comprehensive plan that will take place over two years with the Davis Educational Foundation support.

The Davis Educational Foundation was established by Stanton and Elisabeth Davis after Mr. Davis's retirement as chairman of Shaw's Supermarkets, Inc. The Davis Educational Foundation has been a longtime friend of the University of New England, having provided capital campaign leadership support for the Alfond Center for Health Sciences and the Marine Science Center.