Benefitting Drew’s Institute for Emerging Leaders
April 2026 – Drew University has received a three-year, $300,000 grant from the Endeavor Foundation to support the continued growth of the Drew University Institute for Emerging Leaders.
The Institute, a program within Drew’s Center on Religion, Culture, and Conflict (CRCC), equips undergraduate and graduate students with practical skills in dialogue, conflict resolution, intercultural understanding, and collaborative leadership.
“This grant reflects outside confidence in Drew’s work to prepare emerging leaders for a society that urgently needs stronger skills in civic dialogue, bridge-building, and peace-focused leadership,” said Jonathan Golden, director of the CRCC.
“It will be invaluable to Drew’s efforts to make a profound impact in advancing the University’s broader mission to prepare students to respond thoughtfully and constructively to the urgent challenges of our time.”
The Institute, which is actively recruiting high school, college, and graduate students, was launched in 2023 in response to growing polarization and identity-based conflict on campuses and in society.
It brings together students from diverse backgrounds for an intensive residential experience at Drew, where they work with faculty, practitioners, and community leaders to build tools needed to lead across differences in their campuses, communities, and future professions.
The Endeavor Foundation grant comes at a critical moment in the Institute’s development and will help strengthen and sustain a program that addresses a growing national need.
Founded in 1952, the Endeavor Foundation promotes societal good through grantmaking in areas including education, mental health, civic engagement, and the arts.
