The Hope and Optimism initiative was a $5 million, four-year grant at Notre Dame, Cornell, and the University of Pennsylvania. The project explored the theoretical, empirical, and practical dimensions of hope, optimism, and related states.

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Hope on Screen

A discussion and celebration of our Hope on Screen initiative.
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Former project philosophy research fellow, Michael Milona (Ryerson University), examines findings on the benefits and risks involved in both hope and optimism in his extensive white paper.


  • Philosophy Philosophy

    Over $450,000 for residential, non-residential and dissertation fellowships.

  • Science Science

    $1.4 million in research funding, primarily in psychology and sociology.

  • Philosophy of Religion Philosophy of Religion

    Over $450,000 for residential and non-residential fellowships.

  • Stage Stage

    A $100,000 playwriting competition.

  • Screen Screen

    A $10,000 video competition.