Holmes Scholars® Program
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The AACTE Holmes Program supports students who self-identify as racially and ethnically diverse and are pursuing graduate degrees in education at AACTE member institutions. Founded in 1991 for doctoral students, the Holmes Program now provides mentorship, peer support, and professional development opportunities at three levels:
- The AACTE Holmes Scholars Program supports doctoral and post-doctoral students.
- The AACTE Holmes Master’s Program supports master’s students at current Holmes institutions.
Learn more about the education-related careers and pathways pursued by Holmes students.
History and Governance
The Holmes Scholars Program was originally established in 1991 by the Holmes Group (which later evolved into the Holmes Partnership) with the primary goal of establishing equity, diversity, and cultural competence in programs of higher education and PK-12 schools. The program was designed to enrich the scholarly experience and professional training of talented graduate-level students of color pursuing careers in education.
Selection Criteria
Participating institutions select individual AACTE Holmes Program participants who meet the following criteria:
- Are master’s students at current Holmes institutions, or doctoral students pursuing careers in the education field.
- Are students who self-identify as racially or ethnically diverse pursuing graduate degrees in the field of education.
- Demonstrate a commitment to equity and diversity.
Start a Holmes Program
Participation in the Holmes Program is open to all AACTE member institutions; AACTE charges no additional fee to enroll. Sponsoring institutions are responsible for supporting their Holmes students according to the participation requirements. If you are interested in starting a Holmes program contact Nicole Dunn at ndunn@aacte.org.
Program Tracks
Scholar Program
- Enrolled in a Doctoral or Post-Doctoral at a Holmes Sponsoring Institution
- Submit Proposals to present their research at Holmes Preconference and/or AACTE Annual Meeting
- Required to attend Holmes Preconference each year.
- Required to attend Washington Week and Research & Dissertation Retreat at least once during tenure.
- 2-year tenure minimum
Masters Program
- Enrolled in a Master’s Program in Education at a Holmes Sponsoring Institution
- Be or intend to be engaged in teacher education (preservice or in-service)
- Required to attend Holmes Preconference (yearly) each year
- Invited to attend Washington Week and Research & Dissertation Retreat
- 1-year tenure minimum
Participant Details
Holmes Scholar of the Month
AACTE recognizes Oumarou Abdoulaye Balarabe as the December 2024 Holmes Scholar of the Month
As past president of the Holmes Scholars National Council (2021-2023), Oumarou Abdoulaye Balarabe transformed the organization through enhanced mentorship programs and expanded professional development opportunities. His leadership fostered a more inclusive and supportive environment for scholars from diverse backgrounds, strengthening the Holmes community’s impact on educational equity.
Resources
Opportunities for Scholars
Join the Holmes Council for 2025 – 26
As the Holmes Program continues to grow and evolve amidst the challenges facing education and DEI spaces, the leadership of Holmes Scholars has never been more vital. The Holmes Council plays a crucial role in shaping the program’s future, fostering its mission, and supporting its community of Scholars nationwide.
Elections for the 2025 – 26 Holmes Council are coming up, and we encourage all active Holmes Scholars to consider applying for an open position. Joining the Council offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on leadership experience, contribute to the program’s strategic direction, and make a meaningful impact on educational equity. You can also nominate fellow Scholars who you believe would excel in a leadership role
To learn more about the positions, read testimonials from current council members, apply, and open the nomination form. If you have further questions, please contact Nicole Dunn at ndunn@aacte.org. The nomination window closes on December 13, so don’t wait — step into this exciting opportunity to lead and inspire.
Early Childhood Intervention Personnel Center on Equity
More early childhood leaders and practitioners with the requisite skills and knowledge are required to meet the needs of children aged birth – 5 years old. As a 5-year sub-awardee, AACTE will be directly addressing this issue, in part, by providing targeted mentorship, professional development, and financial support to doctoral students of color pursuing a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. in early childhood and early childhood special education.
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