Public Donations Needed to Unlock Full Matching Funds

 

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation has announced $15 million in emergency funding for state and jurisdictional humanities councils across the United States. This urgent investment comes in response to the elimination of $65 million in federal support through the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).

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As part of this effort, Humanities North Dakota has been awarded $200,000 in immediate relief, with an additional $50,000 available in matching funds. All donations made on or after April 29, 2025 will count toward this match.

 

Donate now to double your impact

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Why This Matters
 

On April 2, Humanities North Dakota received notice that all of its NEH operating grants had been canceled, resulting in a loss of more than $700,000 in core annual support. These funds helped power the free lifelong learning and civic education opportunities we offer to communities across North Dakota and beyond.

In response, we launched The Study, a national digital humanities platform rooted in North Dakota’s spirit of resilience and leadership.

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What Is The Study?
 

The Study is a bold, innovative response to the urgent need to sustain and expand the humanities during this critical time. It provides:
 

• Live online classes, podcasts, and Study Clubs for lifelong learners

• Access to leading scholars in history, philosophy, writing, and constitutional studies

• A national resource for other councils and communities affected by federal cuts

• A North Dakota-led solution with a national reach
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Through The Study, Humanities North Dakota continues to create spaces for thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, and community engagement.

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“The Mellon Foundation's support is both a lifeline and a vote of confidence,” said Brenna Gerhardt, executive director of Humanities North Dakota. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to the humanities. Now we turn to our fellow North Dakotans and supporters across the country to help us close the gap. This is our moment to stand up for lifelong learning, civic trust, and a thoughtful democracy.”

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How You Can Help

Your support is critical to protecting the future of the humanities in North Dakota and across the country.

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Make a gift today and your donation will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $50,000
 

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Together, we can ensure that access to education, history, and civic dialogue remains strong and that Humanities North Dakota continues to lead the way forward.