MSYou Matter, Racers Care awards mini grants to support student success, well-being and engagement
By Drs. Alyx Shultz and Jamie Rogers | Nov 6, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. – ӶƵ State University’s MSYou Matter; Racers Care initiative recently announced recipients of its latest round of mini grants, which fund innovative projects designed to enhance student learning, engagement and well-being.
This semester’s funded projects highlight creative efforts across campus to connect students with meaningful experiences both inside and outside the classroom. In total, $50,000 was awarded. Three example projects include the following:
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“Study Starter Pack”, Christy D’Ambrosio, Center for Student Engagement & Success ($1,021)
The Center for Student Engagement & Success regularly visits classrooms to introduce students to key campus resources including mental health support, tutoring, budgeting tools and study strategies. With this mini grant, the office will create Academic Support Kits containing study skills handouts, highlighters, notecards, sticky notes and stress-relief materials. Each kit will also include a list of tutoring services and resource information tailored to each course presentation, giving students both the knowledge and tools to strengthen their academic success. -
“Earth Day Celebration”, Emily Johnson, Sustainability ($2,500)
The second annual Earth Day Celebration will offer hands-on crafts, sustainable snacks, eco-conscious giveaways and educational booths where students can explore ways to live greener and reduce plastic waste. This event aims to create a fun, educational and community-centered environment that celebrates sustainability and encourages students to make everyday choices that protect the planet. -
“Adding Value, Quelling Fears, Fostering Social Interaction within Ag Business Students: Book Club Edition”, Jeffrey S. Young, Agricultural Business ($2,479.25)
Responding to student concerns about uncertainty in the economy and job market, this project will establish a book club series through the Agribusiness Club. The series will provide a platform for students, faculty and staff to discuss timely and practical readings about economic and social issues, while fostering critical thinking, connection and mental wellness. The program aims to help students learn how to think about complex issues in the modern world rather than what to think.
“We’re thrilled to see such meaningful, student-focused projects supported through this round of mini grants,” said Alyx Shultz, co-coordinator of the MSYou Matter; Racers Care initiative. “These proposals reflect the heart of our QEP, promoting care, connection and creativity within the Racer community.”
The MSYou Matter; Racers Care mini grant program provides funding for innovative campus projects that advance ӶƵ State’s culture of engagement and well-being. Recipients are selected for their creativity, alignment with student success goals and potential for lasting impact.
“The mini grants continue to show how caring and innovation work hand in hand at ӶƵ State,” said Jamie Rogers, co-coordinator of MSYou Matter; Racers Care. “When Racers care about themselves, each other and their learning, the result is a stronger, more connected campus.”
About MSYou Matter; Racers Care:
MSYou Matter; Racers Care is ӶƵ State University’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), developed to promote engagement, well-being and care among students, faculty, staff and the community. Through initiatives such as the mini grant program, the QEP fosters meaningful, student-centered learning experiences that empower Racers to succeed academically and personally.
For a complete list of mini grant recipients, please visit .