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Holmes Program

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. Learn more
The AACTE Holmes Master’s Program supports master’s students at current Holmes institutions. Learn more

Boston University is piloting a Holmes Postdoctoral Program in Education and Human Development in which postdoctoral fellows engage in a 2-year research and residency program.

Learn more about the education-related careers and pathways pursued by Holmes students.

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 Holmes Program Director, Weadé James at wjames@aacte.org.

Learn more about the history and governance of the AACTE Holmes Program.

Holmes Preconference: Submit a Proposal

Proposals are now being accepted for the Holmes Preconference. The 2024 AACTE Annual Meeting will take place February 16 – 18, in Aurora/Denver, Colorado. The Holmes Preconference will be held Thursday, February 15 and Friday, February 16.

This is an excellent opportunity to present your research to your peers and obtain feedback in an open and supportive environment. Proposals are encouraged to contribute to the AACTE conference theme. Ascending New Heights: Propelling the Profession Into the Future. Proposal are due October 29.

Learn more about the session descriptions, evaluation criteria and how to submit your proposal.

Benefits for Sponsoring Institutions

Participation in the AACTE Holmes Program is an effective tool for recruiting new students of color.
Participation in the program enhances students’ retention and graduation rates by providing a support network of peers and unique opportunities for professional experiences.
Participation in the program demonstrates and enhances the institution’s role as a leader in supporting diversity in the PK-20 education workforce.
Institutions receive free distribution of faculty search announcements in the Scholars Report monthly e-newsletter.
Sponsoring institutions are recognized in AACTE materials.

Benefits for Students

Membership in a national network of peers with access to dedicated online social networks.
Mentoring opportunities by Holmes Program alumni currently in academia and other leadership positions.
Opportunities to present research at the AACTE Annual Meeting.
Dedicated mentoring programs at the AACTE Annual Meeting.
Annual Holmes Summer Policy Institute in Washington, DC, including participation in AACTE’s Day on the Hill and networking events associated with the AACTE State Leaders Institute.
Annual Holmes Dissertation Retreat and Research Symposium hosted by a Holmes Program institution.
Leadership and professional development opportunities at the national level, such as participation in conference presentations and policy/advocacy training.

Holmes Program Resources

Holmes Highlights

Holmes Program Newsletter

Holmes Program

Holmes Preconference: Submit a Proposal

Program Benefits

Benefits for Sponsoring Institutions

Benefits for Students