Applications opening soon!

_{Essays completed as part of your coursework are eligible - do you have any final assignments that might make a good submission?}

Overview

The David Curran Award is presented to 1-2 Memorial undergraduates each year in recognition of outstanding pieces of writing related to regional development or public policy. 

Submissions must be between 1,000 and 1,500 words. Students are welcome to submit essays that were written as course assignments or essays composed specifically for this award. 

Application Process

Undergraduate students who have completed one year of study and who meet Memorial’s criteria for Scholarship Standing are eligible to apply. Materials must be submitted using the Harris Centre's online application portal which will be linked on this page when applications open. 

Application materials consist of: 

1. A piece of writing (1,000-1,500 words) related to regional development or public policy
2. A letter of recommendation from a Memorial faculty member
3. A copy of your unofficial academic transcripts

Detailed information on Scholarship Standing can be found here.

Past Award Recipients

Last year, the David Curran Award was presented to two students: Aman Gangani, from the Faculty of Business Administration’s Bachelor of Commerce Program, and Madelaine Hart, a fourth-year Geography student in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Mr Gangani’s work discussed regional tourism as an engine for economic, social, and environmental growth, and Ms Hart’s essay explored the economic model of degrowth as a path forward for the province. 

You read more about them and their work here. 

Application Support

The Harris Centre is here to support Memorial students. 

If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please reach out to us at harriscentrefunding@mun.ca. 

About David Curran

The David Curran Award for Memorial University Undergraduate Students was established by the Harris Centre, Newfoundland and Labrador Regional Economic Development Association, and Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador in recognition of David Curran, a passionate advocate and tireless champion of rural Newfoundland.

The award recognizes Memorial University undergraduate students who embody that same spirit of community development innovation and bold scholarship.