Princeton Prize in Race Relations
Scholarship Sponsored by Princeton University
About the Prize
The Princeton Prize in Race Relations recognizes high school students who have demonstrated leadership in advancing racial equity or promoting racial understanding in their schools and communities. Recipients are selected for concrete action and measurable impact rather than writing quality. Winners receive a cash award and an opportunity to participate in a national symposium to deepen their learning and network with peers. Local alumni also honor recipients at regional recognition events.
Description: A national prize that highlights student-led work advancing racial equity and mutual understanding.
Award Value: Recipients receive $2,500 and an all-expenses-paid weekend at Princeton University's Symposium on Race.
- Recognizes student leadership and measurable impact on racial equity.
- Combines monetary award with a convening for continued learning.
- Local ceremonies provide community recognition and alumni engagement.
Criteria
Applications are evaluated on the significance, leadership, and reach of the applicant's work in advancing racial equity and understanding. Evaluators focus on the activity's substance and impact rather than polished writing. The review emphasizes the applicant's role and the measurable scope of outcomes within their school or community. Applicants should present clear evidence of change, collaboration, or sustained effort.
Description: Evaluation centers on three core criteria: significance of the activity, the applicant's role, and the scope and impact on the community.
- The significance of the activity in advancing racial equity, understanding, and mutual respect.
- The applicant's role and demonstrated leadership in the activity.
- The scope and measurable impact on the school or community.
- Impact and leadership matter more than writing quality.
- Provide concrete evidence of outcomes and reach.
- Focus applications on sustained or demonstrable change.
Application Process
The application has two parts: one completed by the student and one by a sponsor who has directly observed the project or its outcomes. Sponsors must be teachers, advisors, community or religious leaders, or other responsible adults who are not related to the applicant. Both parts are submitted online, and a PDF preview of the application is available. If internet access is a barrier, applicants may request alternate arrangements via phone or email.
Eligibility: Sponsor must be an unrelated responsible adult familiar with the work and its impact.
Application Support: For assistance or alternate submission arrangements, call 1-800-742-1036 or email [email protected].
- Two-part submission: student application plus sponsor recommendation.
- Sponsor must have direct knowledge of the project and not be related to the applicant.
- Support is available for applicants with limited internet access.
Organization and History
The Prize is administered by Princeton alumni volunteers through regional committees that manage local outreach and selection. The program operates across 25 Regional Committees plus an At-Large Committee to serve areas without a geographic presence. Over 400 alumni volunteers support the program, reflecting a network committed to inclusive and supportive community work. Regional events and the national symposium connect recipients with peers and alumni mentors.
History of the Award: Alumni-run program with regional committees and an At-Large committee to broaden geographic reach and sustain volunteer engagement.
- Administered by volunteer Princeton alumni across multiple regions.
- Regional committees oversee local recognition and selection.
- National symposium and alumni network provide ongoing support and connection.