Santa Clara University

The Environmental Studies Institute at Santa Clara University is a cross-disciplinary center that promotes scholarship, field research, campus projects, and community outreach activities exploring topics in sustainability and environmental justice. The Institute recently launched a major initiative in collaboration with Americorps to bring sustainable urban gardens to three underserved San Jose neighborhoods.

Learn more about current ESI programs and funding needs (PDF document)

The Global Social Benefit Incubator is the signature program of SCU's Center for Science, Technology, and Society (CSTS).  Providing an intensive two-week residential program for promising social entrepreneurs worldwide, it empowers participants to hone and scale their business models.  Since 2003, 101 award-winning social enterprises have come to Silicon Valley to attend this program, joining a growing network of GSBI alumni creating a more just and sustainable world.

Learn more about the Global Social Benefit Incubator (PDF document)

Extensive character education programs offered through SCU's Markkula Center for Applied Ethics draw on the considerable expertise of  practitioner and scholar, Stephen Johnson.  Professor Johnson has established a long track record of grant funded curriculum development projects for alternative and court schools, which have now been implemented in more than 20 California counties.  The Center also offers comprehensive programs for foster youth, parochial schools, and teachers across the state.

Learn more about SCU's character education programs

SCU's Center for Social Justice and Public Service (CSJPS) instills a commitment to public interest law, offering scholarship and practicum opportunities to those enrolled in the School of Law.  Through direct legal service placements working with underrepresented clients, students make an impact on the community and prepare for leadership in the nonprofit and public sectors.  Particular emphasis is placed on services for at-risk youth and families facing immigration proceedings. Gifts and grants from individuals, corporations, and foundations enable CSJPS to offer fellowships to students who demonstrate career aspirations in this area.

Learn more about current CSJPS programs and funding needs (PDF document)