School of Education and Human Development
The Foote Fellows Honors Program reflects the educational vision of former University of Miami President, Edward T. Foote, who retired in 2000 after serving the University for twenty years. President Foote passed away in the spring, 2016 but his legacy lives on through the Foote Fellows Honors Program that recognizes the most educationally accomplished incoming students at the University of Miami. Foote Fellows have distinguished themselves both in and out of the classroom at their previous schools, are self-motivated, and think independently. Foote Fellows enjoy unmatched freedom and flexibility to explore a multitude of educational resources within the curricular framework of their school or college. Many Foote Fellows leverage this opportunity to pursue additional majors and/or minors.
Students who are accepted into the Foote Fellows program and are majoring in a program in the School of Education and Human Development will be invited to participate in various school based seminars. The first year seminar will be hosted by Dean Prilleltensky and is focused on personal and community well-being. The course may include a web-based set of learning modules designed to engage individuals in the study, promotion and integration of educational, psychological and physical well-being.
Students must maintain a 3.5 cumulative grade point average in order to remain eligible for the Foote Fellow Program and to have this distinction included on their transcripts.
Foote Fellows will also be introduced to faculty led research projects, civic, and volunteer opportunities through various community partnerships, and engagement with the Melissa Institute. The Melissa Institute, conducts research and sponsors conferences, forums and seminars throughout the year addressing school bullying, domestic violence, prevention, education, awareness and community engagement directed at reducing violence. The SEHD, through the generosity of the Melissa Institute, offers complimentary tickets to Foote Fellow students in our program to attend these conferences/seminars during the academic year.
Foote Fellows are invited to participate in the Research Honors Program. This is a two year program that the highest achieving students are invited to participate in the spring of their sophomore year. Students complete the following components
- Two consecutive semesters of faculty mentor research (2-credits each semester) beginning in the fall of the junior year
- A Thesis (10-20 page document; Faculty guided)
- Seminar and poster presentation at the Undergraduate Research, Creativity, and Innovation Forum
- Students who complete the program will have their transcripts stamped with Research Honors Designation
Foote Fellows are contacted in the summer prior to the start of their fall semester by the Undergraduate Academic Dean, Dr. Astorini. Students will be provided with feedback, course suggestions and a customized advising plan based on their interests and intellectual diversity. Foote fellows will be given priority advising and registration appointments throughout their four years at UM.
