1. The Gupta Values Scholarship

The Gupta Values Scholarship

The Gupta Values Scholarship Fund was established by the Gupta Family Foundation in 2017 in order to recognize integrity, commitment to human dignity, and dedication to excellence among graduate students at U-M. As the founders of the Gupta Family Foundation, Rackham alumna Margaret Gupta (M.A., Political Science) and her husband, Shashikant, wish to encourage the next generation of scholars to be agents for positive social change.

Eligibility

Any graduate student enrolled in a Rackham master’s or doctoral program and in good academic standing is eligible for the Gupta Values Scholarship. This award may be renewed for a second year for eligible students.

Selection Criteria

Award recipients will have demonstrated integrity in the face of challenges, a commitment to human dignity, and a dedication to excellence in all they do both inside and outside the academy.

Deadline

September 12, 2025

Award Description

Two awards of $7,500 will be made for spring/summer support. Awardees will be expected to travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with representatives of the Gupta Family Foundation and Gupta Value Scholars from other universities. This travel will be April 10 to 12, 2026.

Application Process

A complete application will include:

  • An essay of up to 1,500 words that addresses the following:
    • The Gupta Values Scholarship is awarded based on each applicant’s demonstrated commitment to the values of integrity, human dignity, and excellence.
    • Describe a situation in your life where one (or more) of these values was challenged.
    • Identify the value, describe how the value was challenged, and explain how you handled it.
    • Be specific with your responses.
  • Letter of recommendation from the applicant’s faculty advisor noting how the applicant demonstrates integrity, commitment to human dignity, and dedication to excellence.
  • Student’s curriculum vitae (c.v.).

Expectations and Responsibilities

  • Award recipients will attend a dinner at Rackham on October 29, 2025, to meet with representatives of the Gupta Family Foundation and Rackham Dean Mike Solomon.
  • Awardees are also expected to travel to Washington, D.C., from Friday, April 10, through Sunday, April 12, 2026, to participate in the Gupta Values Scholars weekend, including trips to historical sites, discussions, and presentations. Air transportation within the continental United States, admission fees, and other costs are covered.

Contact Us

Hours: Finance and Fellowships is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is closed Saturdays and Sundays and on university holidays.

  • Location
    0120 Rackham Building
    915 East Washington Street
    Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1070

  • Contact
    Phone: 734.764.8119
    Fax: 734.615.7535
    Email: [email protected]