A University of Guelph graduate student has been awarded a prestigious Vanier scholarship worth $50,000 a year for three years.

International development and sociology PhD candidate Jess Notwell was among the 166 award recipients announced by Minister of Science Kristy Duncan in Ottawa today.

The federal government introduced the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships in 2008 to attract and retain world-class doctoral students.

Jess Notwell
Jess Notwell

Notwell documents the stories and priorities of women in non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

“I felt shocked and deeply honoured when I found out that I am a Vanier Scholarship recipient,” she said.

She will interview women of different generations to learn how childhood, life events and environment have affected their decisions.

“I want to learn the strategies women are using to create change in their lives and communities, and what’s working and why,” said Notwell.

“I am also interested in whether different generations approach and think about their NGO work in particular ways.”

Notwell will spend a year overseas for research and discussions.

Referring to her study participants, she said, “I hope to create opportunities for women to share strategies for creating change, strengthening relationships, and planning new partnerships and initiatives.”

Notwell’s award reflects the high calibre of graduate students coming to U of G, said Charlotte Yates, provost and vice-president (academic).

“We are extremely pleased that Jess has been recognized with this award, showing that she is among the top PhD candidates in Canada,” she said.

“Her findings will help create space for young women’s leadership and rights fulfillment, while providing valuable insight into women’s intergenerational leadership and economic justice issues.”

Malcom Campbell, vice-president (research), said Notwell’s studies will help engage NGO donors and volunteers, while improving the accountability of these organizations.

“Jess Notwell’s research will not just benefit women overseas, but is extremely applicable to the work of Canadian NGOs that focus on women,” he said.

“Her PhD supervisor, Professor Sharada Srinivasan, should also be congratulated and commended for providing the resources, and, crucially, the mentorship and guidance to elevate Jessica’s research successes. Exceptional research supervision is a key element of the graduate student support we provide here at the University of Guelph.”