In memory of Alice Hadler
Alice Berliner Hadler arrived at Wesleyan in 1995. For the following 25 years, until her retirement in 2020, she fostered enduring transnational communities, inspired clear written expression of ideas, and celebrated stories and their tellers across geographies and lived experiences. Alice worked closely with Wesleyan’s international students, providing them with transformative academic and personal support, and building lifelong friendships. She taught courses on writing, and supervised many theses. She served on the campus Fulbright committee, Watson committee, and as a recruiter for the Freeman Scholars program.
Her impact on the lives of her students and colleagues is beyond measure.
Alice is survived by her husband, Jim, her three children, three grandchildren, and thousands of former students from around the world, especially from Asia and Africa.
To honor Alice’s legacy, Wesleyan created the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant Fund. When Alice was informed about this project in 2020, she wrote “I’m speechless (which those of you who know me know doesn’t happen too often!). I’m stunned and truly honored”
Alice’s friends and family invite you to honor Alice’s memory by making a contribution to the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant Fund using the link below.
Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant Fund
FAQ’s
What is the Wesleyan Summer Experience Grant (WSEG) program?
Wesleyan Summer Experience Grants provide up to $5,000 to fund summer opportunities such as internships, faculty-mentored research, entrepreneurial ventures, volunteer work, field study, creative projects, or academic programs related to students’ career interests and aspirations. These grants allow students to gain valuable experience that enhances their educational journey and career readiness.
Why does Wesleyan provide these grants?
Wesleyan is committed to raising funds for Summer Experience Grants because they offer critical opportunities for students, particularly those with financial need, to engage in meaningful career-related experiences during the summer. These experiences often play a key role in shaping students' career paths, providing real-world experience, and helping them make informed decisions about their futures.
What is the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant?
The Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant is an endowed fund named in honor of Alice. It is specifically designated for international students or those who will be spending their summer engaged in meaningful work abroad. This grant is one of approximately 60 named Summer Experience grants available to undergraduates at Wesleyan.
How do students find out about the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant?
The grant is advertised across campus beginning in January. The information is distributed to all departments, class deans, and targeted students who meet specific grant criteria.
How do students apply for the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant?
Students must complete a general application detailing their summer experience. This includes two essays and a budget that outlines how they intend to use the grant funds. The application process requires that students have a confirmed summer experience before applying.
How are recipients of the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant selected?
A committee of Wesleyan staff reviews and scores all applications. The selection process prioritizes students who are recipients of need-based financial aid, with rising juniors and seniors given first consideration. For the Alice Hadler Grant, all international students who apply are considered, and the grant is awarded to those who meet the criteria and score the highest according to the committee's rubric.
What is the financial goal for the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant Fund?
The goal is to create a $100,000 endowment that would generate $5,000 annually in perpetuity, allowing Wesleyan to award one grant each year in honor of Alice Hadler. As of July 2024, $40,000 has been raised, and $60,000 is still needed to complete the endowment.
Where can I find more information about the Wesleyan Summer Experience Grant program?
For more information, including eligibility criteria, types of experiences funded, application essays, budget details, and examples of previous grant recipients, visit the Gordon Career Center’s Summer Grants page.
How can I contribute to the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant Fund?
Contributions can be made to help complete the endowment and ensure that Wesleyan students continue to benefit from this meaningful opportunity. Donations will honor Alice’s legacy and support future generations of students.
To donate online, visit https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/47758/donations/new?a=8275609 or go to give.wesleyan.edu and enter “Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant” as your designation.
To give by mail, make checks payable to Wesleyan University and note that the gift is for the Alice Hadler Summer Experience Grant. Mail to: Wesleyan University Office of Advancement, 55 High Street, Middletown, CT 06457.
To donate via stocks, wire transfer or donor advised funds, contact Alicia Montano Vigil, Director of Donor Relations, at avigil@wesleyan.edu or 860-685-2636.