CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025: The CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025 is a transformative and prestigious opportunity crafted for dedicated researchers, innovative artists, and passionate scholars who are deeply involved in Puerto Rican Studies. It aims to support meaningful and impactful explorations of Puerto Rican identity, history, and social connections—especially those who are seeking flexible, hybrid work arrangements. Offered by the renowned Center for Puerto Rican Studies (CENTRO) at Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), this fellowship is designed for those who want to generate impactful scholarship or art while remaining geographically rooted in their communities.
Whether you’re pursuing a dissertation, engaged in an independent research project, or pushing creative boundaries through visual or performance art, this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know. From eligibility and application tips to program benefits and real-world impact, we’ll make sure you’re fully informed and confident in your application.
CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Rooted + Relational Hybrid Fellowship 2025 |
| Offered By | CENTRO at Hunter College |
| Application Deadline | May 4, 2025, 11:59 PM (ET) |
| Fellowship Types | Hybrid Fellows, Artist-in-Residence, Dissertation Fellows |
| Stipends | $25,000 to $75,000 depending on category |
| Residency Requirement | Hybrid options available; Artist-in-Residence must be based in NYC |
| Eligibility | Open to researchers, artists, and ABD doctoral students with strong experience in Puerto Rican Studies |
| Focus Theme | “Boricuas in Relation” |
| Official Website | centropr.hunter.cuny.edu |
The CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025 is a unique and powerful opportunity to engage with Puerto Rican communities, histories, and futures. It champions work that crosses borders, builds bridges, and reimagines identity through innovative scholarship and creative practice. Whether you’re conducting field research in the diaspora, creating a multimedia project, or mentoring the next generation, this fellowship provides the resources, platform, and community to take your work further.
What is the “Rooted + Relational” Fellowship?
The “Rooted + Relational” Fellowship is a cornerstone initiative of CENTRO that aligns with their mission to advance knowledge and cultural representation around the lived experiences of Puerto Ricans. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the theme “Boricuas in Relation” invites applicants to explore how Puerto Ricans engage with diverse communities—racially, ethnically, linguistically, and globally.
This year’s theme emphasizes the rich, interconnected realities of Puerto Rican communities, both on the island and in the diaspora. From historical alliances and shared struggles with other marginalized groups to the influence of migration, music, and activism, applicants are encouraged to explore cross-cultural dynamics through research or creative expression.
Why it Matters
Puerto Rican identity is shaped by centuries of migration, colonization, resilience, and cultural blending. The relational aspect of this fellowship theme underscores how Puerto Ricans navigate and influence broader social landscapes. This approach invites applicants to go beyond isolated studies and instead look at Puerto Ricans as part of wider, multicultural ecosystems. The fellowship supports groundbreaking work that highlights these intersections and centers the voices of those often excluded from mainstream narratives.
Fellowship Categories and Who Can Apply
1. Hybrid Fellows
- Number of Positions: Up to 5
- Stipend: $25,000
- Who Should Apply: Scholars, educators, independent researchers, and community practitioners who cannot relocate to NYC but are actively working on projects that relate to the fellowship’s theme.
- Requirements: Applicants should have significant experience or knowledge in Puerto Rican Studies. Formal academic credentials like a Ph.D. are not required, but demonstrated expertise and impact are key.
2. Artist-in-Residence
- Number of Positions: 1
- Stipend: $75,000
- Who Should Apply: Creative professionals including—but not limited to—painters, dancers, poets, filmmakers, sound artists, and performance artists.
- Requirements: Must commit to residing in New York City during the fellowship period and producing public-facing work. Applicants must demonstrate deep engagement with Puerto Rican culture and artistic traditions.
3. Dissertation Fellows
- Number of Positions: Up to 2
- Stipend: $25,000
- Who Should Apply: Doctoral students who will reach ABD status by July 1, 2025. Research topics must align with Puerto Rican history, culture, or sociopolitical issues.
- Requirements: Strong academic foundation in Puerto Rican or related studies. Applicants must submit one reference letter from their dissertation advisor, showing academic support and project viability.
How to Apply for CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Review the fellowship categories carefully and choose the one that best aligns with your goals. Consider whether you meet the residency requirement, have relevant expertise, and are available to commit time to the program throughout the academic year.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials
Gather the following documents:
- Cover Letter: Explain your background, project proposal, and how your work aligns with the fellowship’s goals and theme.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include academic and professional accomplishments, creative achievements, and relevant publications or exhibits.
- Writing Sample or Artistic Portfolio: Scholars should submit a 20–25 page sample; artists should provide a well-curated digital portfolio.
- Course Proposal: One-page draft of a course you could teach or develop during your fellowship, with a reading list and learning outcomes.
- References: Three professional contacts who can speak to your qualifications. ABD candidates must include their dissertation advisor.
Step 3: Submit Online via Submittable
CENTRO uses Submittable for all applications. Make sure to create an account, upload your documents, and verify submission confirmation.
Step 4: Mark the Deadline
Applications are due by May 4, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so submit early and double-check every detail.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Participating in the “Rooted + Relational” Fellowship comes with significant advantages that extend beyond monetary support:
- Generous Stipends: With financial support between $25,000 and $75,000, fellows can focus on their research or artistic pursuits without financial pressure.
- Institutional Resources: Gain access to CENTRO’s archives, faculty, libraries, and research tools.
- Professional Development: Fellows will have opportunities to host workshops, present their work, and collaborate with colleagues across disciplines.
- Community Engagement: Projects are encouraged to include or benefit Puerto Rican communities, fostering meaningful connections.
- Increased Visibility: Whether you’re publishing research or debuting a film, CENTRO offers a respected platform to amplify your work.
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Expert Tips for a Strong Application
1. Align Clearly With the Theme
Your proposal should show a deep understanding of the “Boricuas in Relation” theme. Use real-world examples, existing research, or past work to show your perspective.
2. Tell Your Story
Don’t just list your accomplishments—tell the story of your intellectual or creative journey. What drives your work? Why does it matter?
3. Demonstrate Broader Impact
Articulate how your work will reach beyond academia. How will it influence policy, education, communities, or cultural narratives?
4. Show Professionalism
Proofread thoroughly. Submit organized, polished documents. If possible, ask mentors or peers to review your application.
FAQs about CENTRO “Rooted + Relational” Hybrid Fellowship 2025
Who can apply for the Hybrid Fellowship?
Any professional with experience in Puerto Rican Studies who cannot relocate to NYC. The hybrid model is designed to accommodate flexibility.
Are international candidates eligible?
Yes! CENTRO welcomes applications from international scholars and artists, especially those engaged in diasporic or comparative studies.
Do I need to have academic credentials to apply?
No. While dissertation fellows must be doctoral students, the other fellowships are open to experienced professionals without a Ph.D.
Is the stipend subject to taxes?
Yes, the stipend is considered taxable income under U.S. law. Please consult a tax advisor for details.
Can I apply again next year if not selected?
Absolutely. Many fellows are accepted after reapplying with refined projects or additional experience.
