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Wharton Center Creative Classrooms Initiative

The Creative Classrooms Initiative engages Michigan State University (MSU) faculty and students by integrating Wharton Center programming into academic courses. This program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, increases student engagement, and supports faculty development. 

We invite MSU instructors to submit proposals that embed Wharton Center programming as a key element of their curriculum. Proposals should connect a Wharton Center performance to the course’s learning objectives and include a student performance experience. Selected projects receive funding to support this integration, giving faculty a unique opportunity to enrich their courses through the arts. 

Eligibility 

Any MSU instructor or faculty member may apply. We strongly encourage proposals from non-arts disciplines. 

Funding 

Selected proposals may receive up to $1,200 in funding. Faculty may use funds to: 

  • Subsidize student tickets for a Wharton Center performance. 
    • Most performances offer $19 or $29 student tickets. 
    • If the course requires attending a Wharton Center performance, every student must have access to a ticket. Funding must cover ticket costs. 
  • Hire a guest artist to visit the classroom. 
  • Purchase classroom materials for arts-integrated lessons. 
  • Cover other relevant, pre-approved expenses. 

Application Process 

Faculty should submit a proposal describing their course, how they will integrate Wharton Center programming, and the anticipated impact on student learning. A Wharton Center staff committee will review all proposals. 

For Fall 2025 programs, priority will be given to applications submitted by September 29, 2025. All other applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.  

Selection Criteria 

We will evaluate proposals based on creativity, feasibility, and potential to increase student engagement and learning. 

Application Questions 

Applicants should provide: 

  • A general overview of their proposal. 
  • The Wharton Center performance(s) they will incorporate. 
  • How they will integrate performances into the curriculum. 
  • How they will use the awarded funds.