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STR Program


Scholars Transforming Through Research (STR):
Where Research Meets Civic Impact

This program kicks off in November 2026 and ends in March 2027

The STR Program prepares students to become research leaders for a changing world. More than learning how to conduct research, participants develop the skills to communicate its value, connect their work to real-world challenges, and engage effectively with decision-makers, community leaders, and the public. Through interactive training and hands-on experiences, students learn how research can inform policy, strengthen communities, and drive meaningful change. STR empowers participants to move beyond discovery and become advocates for the importance of undergraduate research, civic engagement, and evidence-based solutions. STR equips the next generation of scholars to lead with purpose, communicate with confidence, and make a lasting impact.

Submit Your team

Submissions for the 2026-27 Program close on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Deadlines + Locations Chart

ActivityLocationDeadline
Submission Window ClosesOnlineSeptember 18, 2026
Submission Notifications Sent and Registration OpensOnlineSeptember 29, 2026
Registration Closes and Payment DeadlineOnlineOctober 30, 2026
Orientation & Training Session #1

Getting Inspired, Setting Goals – 105 minutes		Live OnlineNovember 13, 2026
Training Session #2

Connecting and Building Relationships with Policymakers – 60 minutes		Live OnlineDecember 4, 2026
Training Session #3

Op-ed Writing and Pitching – 90 minutes		Live OnlineJanuary 15, 2027
Training Session #4

Understanding the Appropriations Process: Report Language and Programmatic Requests – 60 minutes		Live OnlineJanuary 29, 2027
Training Session #5

Policy Brief Writing – 90 minutes		Live OnlineFebruary 5, 2027
Training Session #6

Media Interviews & Building Relationships with Reporters – 90 minutes

Mentor Orientation (mentors only) – 45 minutes		Live OnlineFebruary 19, 2027
Training Session #7-8

Preparing for Meetings with Policymakers – 120 minutes

Working Together to Advance Research: A Panel with Association Partners – 60 minutes		Washington, DC area (for those who selected online/onsite)
Online (instructions provided for preparing for virtual meetings with congressional representatives)		March 1, 2027
Meetings with Congressional RepresentativesWashington, DC area (for those who selected online/onsite)
Online (instructions provided for preparing for virtual meetings with congressional representatives)		March 2, 2027 (for those who selected online/onsite)
 
TBD based on team and representative availability (for those who selected online)

March In-Person Training Information

Location of MeetingHousing Information
Arlington, VA – More details coming soonArlington, VA – More details coming soon

Registration Rates for STR 2026-27*

Online/Onsite

Team of 2Team of 3Team of 4Team of 5
Member$650$945$1,240$1,525
Non-Member$710$1,035$1,360$1,675

Online Only

Team of 2Team of 3Team of 4Team of 5
Member$570$825$1,080$1,325
Non-Member$630$915$1,200$1,475

*Once accepted, registration and payment open on September 29, 2026 and close on October 30, 2026.

Submit Your team

STR Graduates

STR in the News

FAQs

Have additional questions? Email us at CUR@CUR.org.
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