KCDC Student Fellowship – Spring 2026

Fellowship Overview

The Kansas City Design Center (KCDC) invites applications for a Student Fellowship focused on expanding design education and engagement opportunities for K–12 students in Kansas City. This position provides hands-on experience at the intersection of design, education, and community development, offering fellows the chance to shape curriculum, lead outreach activities, and plan future student-centered programming.

This fellowship is ideal for students who are passionate about design, education, and civic engagement, and who want to play a role in building equitable pathways for young people to explore careers in design and the built environment.

Fellowship Details

  • Award: Dean’s Excellence Scholarship – $1,500 (non-renewable)

  • Term: January 20 – May 31, 2026

  • Extension: Opportunity to extend into June 2026 with an additional stipend

  • Location: KCDC Studio, 1111 Main Street, Suite 115, Kansas City, MO

  • Format: Remote engagement with five required trips to Kansas City (aligned with seminar meetings and engagement activities)

Key Responsibilities

As a KCDC Student Fellow, you will:

  • Develop & share design curriculum tailored for middle and high school students, introducing them to design thinking and creative problem-solving.

  • Coordinate K–12 engagement activities, connecting students to real-world projects led by KCDC fellows and community partners.

  • Support interdisciplinary collaboration across design, community development, and education to strengthen KCDC’s outreach impact.

  • Plan and prepare the Summer 2026 8th Grade Design Workshop, building a framework for immersive design learning.

Professional Benefits

  • Gain direct experience in curriculum design, education outreach, and event planning.

  • Build leadership and professional skills in community-based design practice.

  • Network with design professionals, community partners, and educators in Kansas City.

  • Contribute to expanding access to design for underrepresented youth.