Humanities Futures: A Collaborative Grant Initiative

Supported by: Illinois Innovation Network

Partners: Governors State University and IRIS Center at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Humanities Futures is a joint effort designed to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of work at the intersection of technology and the humanities. This grant-funded program engages students from both institutions in immersive experiences that highlight emerging career pathways shaped by digital tools, creative problem-solving, and humanistic perspectives.

Focus

The program responds to pressing questions about the future of work by connecting students—particularly those from underrepresented groups—with professionals in humanities-informed technology careers. These careers blend technical skills such as data visualization, media production, and digital communication with core humanistic strengths including storytelling, ethical reasoning, and civic engagement.

Program Activities (2024–2025 Academic Year)

• Ten student fellows at each participating university
• Partnered with local industry mentors to explore career paths, professional trajectories, and daily work
• Gained hands-on experience with digital storytelling tools and techniques through faculty-led workshops and mentor guidance
• Produced original digital storytelling pieces highlighting mentors' careers and insights
• Presented work publicly to audiences of faculty, community members, and industry professionals

Impact

Student-created digital stories serve as valuable resources for peers, educators, and career development centers. By illuminating diverse and expanding opportunities available to humanities graduates in technology-driven fields, the program helps students envision new professional pathways and prepares them to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Geographic Scope

Illinois (GSU and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville)