Kathleen Collins Receives Awards to Support Research

Congratulations to Professor Kathleen Collins on receiving the Fulbright Global Scholar Award (2025-2026) and the College of Liberal Arts Social Science Research Grant (2025-2027)! These awards support her research on pathways of postcommunist military reform.

Through this research, Kathleen considers such questions as: Why have some postcommunist states engaged in dep military reform, whereas others did not? When does defense reform substantively transform communist military culture, training, and institutions, and when is it merely a superficial slogan? Why does it stall, backslide, or completely fail? Among "reformed" militaries, what challenges remain? The implications of military reform for democracy, NATO, and the nature of potential conflict in Eurasia are enormous. With these awards, Kathleen will focus on the paths of defense reform in Poland, Estonia, and Kazakhstan.

The Global Scholar Award is the most competitive program awarded by the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. The Fulbright Global Scholar Award allows U.S. academics and professionals to engage in multi-country, trans-regional projects. This award is a reflection of Kathleen's leadership and contributions to society. It is made possible through funds appropriated annually by the U.S. Congress and contributions from partner countries and private parties.

The College of Liberal Arts Social Science Research Grant supports "hard-to-fund" and "rapid response" research. It assists faculty with gaining access to national scientific data not otherwise accessible, conducting pilot research that will enhance competitiveness in external grant competitions, and for faculty to complete fieldwork in fast-moving field situations. This grant is made possible by the Engdahl Family Fund, College of Liberal Arts, and the Executive Vice President & Provost.