The Leatherby Libraries is pleased to announce that applications for the third annual Eric M. Scandrett Graduate Research Prize are now open! This prize recognizes the extraordinary work done by Chapman University graduate students who’ve effectively utilized library resources to complete their research. The Library Graduate Research Prize is endowed by Eric M. Scandrett. 

Graduate students from any discipline across Chapman who have recently finished a research project or paper are encouraged to apply. 

Applications are now live! Learn about application guidelines here!

 Applications close on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

Students interested in applying must submit a 1000-2000-word essay on how they utilized the Leatherby Libraries’ resources while completing their research. Along with an essay, students must submit an application and research sample that our panel of judges, of faculty and librarians, will then evaluate. The panel will score student submissions primarily based on the description and the quality of evidence provided about their research process, instead of on the final research project itself. 

Our first, second, and third-place winners will receive cash prizes for their research efforts! Our graduate student winners will also receive recognition on the Leatherby Libraries’ blog and social media, a certificate, and their winning applications will be showcased on the Chapman University Digital Commons.

For more information about eligibility and application guidelines, check out the Graduate Research Prize Home Page or contact the Chair of Library AI Literacy and Instructional Services, Taylor Greene, at tgreene@chapman.edu.

Top Photo (from left to right): Second Place Winner, Connor Bogenreif; Second Place Winner, Robin Gomes; First Place Winner, Gerald Obinna Ozota; Second Place Winner, Mir Aminy; Third Place Winner, Sevana Karagoulian; and the prize’s benefactor, Eric M. Scandrett.