Yale continues to build its Scholars at Risk (SAR) program, reflecting its commitment to academic freedom and supporting scholars facing threats around the world, from wars in Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, to scholars from countries affected by violence and natural disasters in Africa and the Caribbean. Recognizing the increasing need, in 2023 university leaders and centers at Yale committed to $2.6 million dollars in funding, and the formation of a university committee to receive nominations of scholars from different parts of the university, as well as from individual scholars in need. The program has already had a significant impact, both on the scholars being helped, and on our communities here at Yale.

Continuing Calls for Nominations and Support

The SAR Committee has recently announced the opening of the next round of nominations for hosting threatened scholars, artists, and activists for appointments of up to two years. Currently, the university sponsors 15 scholars from four continents, spanning various professional schools and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

Through the Yale Scholars at Risk Program, faculty members are able to nominate scholars they know or seek matches from vetted global networks such as the IIE Scholar Rescue Fund and Scholars at Risk Network. Jennifer Gandhi, professor of political science, and deputy dean of the Jackson School of Global Affairs, has been the chair of the university’s SAR committee since its formation in 2023. She emphasizes the importance of leveraging the temporary opportunity the Yale SAR program provides (up to two years of funding, a year longer than at most peers), to secure longer-term academic positions, while acknowledging the complex realities that scholars face. 

Comprehensive Services for Scholars

Yale’s Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) also plays a critical role in supporting the broader community of scholars who have come to Yale from countries in conflict. In addition to assisting scholars in obtaining visas — not always an easy task — OISS eases the transition to the university and local community, while also helping to open immigration pathways for scholars who may need to extend their stay or apply for asylum. OISS also plays a critical role in communicating with Yale leadership to ensure that the perspectives of international students and scholars are included in discussions about campus life.

Building Networks and Sharing Challenges

Yale’s SAR program recognizes that Scholars need much more assistance than just settling into their academic and scholarly lives at Yale. On October 26, 2024, the university hosted the Displaced Scholars’ Career and Resource Day, gathering participants from institutions across Connecticut and Massachusetts. This event, facilitated by Yale’s SAR committee and the Office of International Affairs, provided a platform for displaced scholars to address challenges related to visas, career planning, and community building. 

Looking Ahead

Yale’s SAR initiative exemplifies its commitment to being a haven for scholars at risk and fostering an academic community enriched by diverse global perspectives. In addition to supporting students and scholars from conflict areas, Yale will be launching a fund to support global partnerships that deepen global collaborations and promote the exchange of scholars. 

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For more information on how to contribute or nominate scholars, visit the Scholars at Risk Program page at the Yale and the World website.