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Helene LaFrance Library Undergraduate Research Award

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Introduction

As Santa Clara University strengthens its commitment to undergraduate research, the University Library is supporting this effort by annually offering two undergraduate research awards. These awards will honor students who demonstrate exemplary research skills and creativity through the comprehensive use of library and information resources to produce a scholarly work or class project of high quality.

This award was renamed in 2024 to honor Helene Lafrance. Helene served the Santa Clara University community as a social sciences librarian and Head of Research and Outreach from 1995-2020. In her time at Santa Clara, Helene launched numerous visionary programs, including the Library Undergraduate Research Award. In addition, Helene was a scholar with a fierce commitment to social justice and equal rights– which is reflected in the award-winning work of SCU undergraduates.

Prize(s)

  • Two $1,000 awards and a certificate for the winning student(s) or group(s)

 

Key dates for academic year 2025-2026

  • Submission deadline: TBD (Sometime Spring Quarter)

  • Winner notifications: TBD

  • Award reception: TBD

 

Award Ceremony

  • The Dean of the Library will present the awards at a ceremony held during Spring quarter.   

  • The winners (individuals or groups) will give a 10-12 minute presentation about their research projects, followed by a Q & A session.

  • A reception will follow.