This fund was established in 2018 by Jeffrey Trawick-Smith, who was the inaugural Phyllis Waite Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Education at the Center for Early Childhood Education (CECE) at Eastern, and his wife, Nancy, to support undergraduate student research in early childhood education and development. The purpose of the fund is to provide assistance to undergraduate students who are conducting scientific, empirical studies on young children within the CECE. Studies supported by the fund will yield practical knowledge in early education and development and, thus, promote the well-being of young children and their families. Funds may be used for materials, travel, summer independent study or internship, or defray the cost-of-living expenses or tuition.

Students are encouraged to file the FAFSA by March 1