The Ohio University Foundation has awarded $299,186 to 19 new research and educational initiatives from the 1804 Fund for 2011. 

The 1804 Fund, which was designed to foster innovation and collaboration across disciplines, supports the University's core mission of "maintaining, strengthening, and enhancing a learning-centered community." 

Projects awarded through the 2011 funding cycle range from new research in kinematics, dynamics and controls in robotics, to the creation of a "collaboratory" for developmental mathematics courses. The 1804 Fund supports proposals through two funding pools: research and graduate studies, and undergraduate learning.   

This year six projects were awarded $134,093 through the faculty research and graduate studies category, designed to promote "research and scholarly activities and innovations in graduate education." 

Visit http://www.ohio.edu/compass/stories/11-12/9/2011-1804-grants.cfm for a complete list of 2011 awards.  

"The goal of the 1804 Fund is to support new, innovative projects that enhance the overall quality of Ohio University through research, programming and resources," said Dorothy Schey, director of development for special fundraising initiatives. "The 1804 Fund has provided the initial investment for hundreds of successful projects. The fund truly embodies the spirit of Ohio University and allows students, faculty and staff to be creative and dream big." 

Within the undergraduate learning category, which promotes "curricular innovations, programs, and activities that enhance the undergraduate educational experience," the Ohio University Foundation awarded $165,093 to 14 projects. One project, titled "Earth Materials Research Laboratory 2.0," received an award through both funding pools. 

Last year, the 1804 Fund celebrated its thirtieth anniversary, bringing the grand total of awards to approximately $15 million. Since awarding its first grants in 1980, the fund has supported more than 600 projects and programs. 

The 1804 Fund was endowed in 1979 by a visionary gift from the estate of alumnus C. Paul Stocker "to enhance the quality of university programs and life." All awards support the University’s vision of providing the best student-centered learning experience in America. 

To make a gift in support of The 1804 Fund, contact Schey in University Advancement at 740-593-4556 or schey@ohio.edu, or give on-line at www.ohio.edu/give.