Willamette University

The Lilly Project

Summer Research Grants for Students

The Lilly Project has provided stipends for students for summer research and creative projects related to the exploration of vocation. These grants were not intended to aid students in the experiential exploration of a particular vocation, but rather to support research related to the idea/theory of vocation.

The goal of these grants was to promote scholarly and creative activity that explores a wider understanding of vocation as the way in which our gifts, skills and commitments find expression in the world through work, study, service and other human activities. Proposals were expected to have the intent of seeking outcomes that included presentation at Willamette, thus furthering the conversation about vocation on campus.


2012 Research Presentations
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Hatfield Room, Mark O. Hatfield Library

4:00 p.m. - Astra Lincoln ('14)

Vocational Vagabond, Volunteer Vacationer

Astra had planned to study WWOOF. Instead she was deported from Canada, hitchhiked some 3,000 miles, became a dumpster-diving aficionado, and, in effect, learned how to stop making a living and start making a life.

Sponsor: Jennifer Jopp, assistant professor of history


5:00 p.m. - Ceara Lewis ('13)

What does it mean to be an Alaskan Native fisher in the 21st century?

Ceara spent the summer in Naknek, Alaska, where she interviewed native family and friends from three generations about what it means to be a Native Alaskan fisherman in the 21st century.

Sponsor: Rebecca Dobkins, professor of anthropology


6:00 p.m. - Jill Mayer ('15)

Irish sean-nós singing and community

Jill traveled to Cill Chiaráin, Ireland to explore sean-nós singing, as well as the lifestyle and community surrounding the tradition of this style of singing. In Ireland she studied for 6 weeks under the tutelage of Micheál Ó Cuaig. Jill will present an overview of her learning process and findings.

Sponsor: Todd Silverstein, professor of chemistry