Each year, this program—created in 2007 by American artist, investor, and philanthropist Kathryn W. Davis and based at Middlebury College—awards $10,000 in funding to more than 125 student leaders to carry out projects that promote peace anywhere in the world, typically during the northern hemisphere summer.
The winning projects must be able to articulate a clear vision of peace and demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to that ideal.
A successful project must also demonstrate a deep understanding of the issue at hand, be creative in its approach, and carefully consider the impact its work will have on the community.
These characteristics are key to the selection process.
In 2024, ORT was the only university in Uruguay to be selected and one of the few worldwide to secure funding for more than one project, reaffirming its commitment to innovation and social impact.
Featured Projects in 2024
The projects submitted by ORT in 2024 demonstrate its students' ability to address local and global issues with a creative and committed approach.
Both projects not only secured funding but also had a significant impact on the communities they served.
Promoting the establishment of biorefineries
Led by Magdalena Ripoll, M.Sc., a graduate in Biotechnology Engineering, along with students Santiago Bonasso and Andrés Vigo, this project focused on waste recovery in the renewable energy industry.
By promoting green chemistry and a sustainable approach, they raised awareness among business and industry leaders about the responsible management of natural resources and the social impact of a sustainable economy.
Jacinto Laguna Public Library
This project, led by Ivanna Ceruti, a graduate of the Bachelor of Graphic Design program, revitalized Uruguay’s oldest library outside of Montevideo, located in the city of Nueva Palmira, in Colonia.
With a redesign of its visual identity, improvements to the space, and literary activities, it has been transformed into an inclusive cultural center that promotes reading and community engagement.
How to Participate in 2025
Students interested in submitting a project should consult with an advisor or instructor to identify a relevant topic.
The proposal must include a description, a work plan, and a budget, and may be written in Spanish.
Key dates:
- Dec. 20, 2024: Deadline for submitting proposals to the ORT Internal Committee.
- Dec. 27, 2024: Completion of the internal evaluation process.
- Feb. 5, 2025: Selected projects must submit their applications on the Middlebury platform in English.
Subsequent phases:
Between February and May 2025, the projects will be evaluated internationally by Middlebury College.
The overall results will be announced in late May, and the approved projects will be implemented between June and August.
At the conclusion of the program, participants must submit a final report and provide an accounting of how the funds were used in both English and Spanish.
Learn more
For more information on how to participate in the Projects for Peace program, please contact Sara Goldberg (goldberg@ort.edu.uy).
Projects for Peace remains a unique platform for ORT students to lead the way toward a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.
Would you like to join us?