Research on aging and older adults is the focus of the new Connor Fellows Program for PhD students. The College of Social Work fellowship provides a package of funding, mentoring and scholarship aimed at improving the wellbeing of South Carolina adults. One incoming PhD student each year will receive the scholarship.  

The Connor Fellowship began in 2012 with a donation from MSW alumna Sidnah Connor, former Director of Columbia, SC’s USO (United Service Organization) and a state social worker. Her donation has since expanded to include an entire scholarship.  

PhD program director Maryah Fram says the fellowship will provide a wonderful opportunity for a new student.  

“The Connor Fellowship will let us further our commitment to developing new knowledge to improve the wellbeing of older adults. Complementing the expertise of our Social Work faculty, the Connor Fellows Program provides a rich package of financial, mentoring, and institutional supports so that we can prepare outstanding scholars for leadership, innovation and impact in the field of aging research.”  

Students applying in fall 2023 are eligible for the fellowship. Key features include an $18,000 three-year stipend, full time tuition and several thousand dollars for research, travel and support. College of Social Work Dean Teri Browne hopes the research and funding will assist aging SC residents.  

“We know that the growing number of older adults in our society have unique needs and barriers to quality of life. The Connors Fellows Program will support social work scholar students who can make a real difference in research and teaching about the unique needs of older adults in South Carolina and beyond.” 

Applicants interested in the fellowship should apply to the College of Social Work’s PhD program. Final deadline for the Connor Fellowship application is January 15.