The University of Montana’s Mansfield Center recently lost over $6 million in grant funding from the Department of Defense for its Project on American Democracy program. The grant, awarded in 2023 and scheduled to run through 2026, was terminated on Feb. 28 as part of federal budget cuts. The program aimed to promote patriotism, bridge the urban-rural divide, and support democracy.
The Mansfield Center, established in 1983 and named after the late Sen. Mike Mansfield, focuses on creating leaders with a broad worldview and understanding of democracy. The program cuts have impacted efforts to bring foreign dignitaries to UM, provide language instruction for service members, and develop U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy and trade objectives.
The grants also sought to bridge the urban-rural divide by bringing students from both communities to Washington, D.C. for workshops. The termination of the grants has left thousands of students and community members without access to these opportunities, impacting both UM and Montana as a whole.
UM President Seth Bodnar is working to reverse the decision and secure funding for the programs, which are essential for educating Montanans on American freedom, liberty, and patriotism. The Mansfield Center is asking for financial support as part of a university fundraising campaign to ensure the continuation of these vital initiatives. The loss of the Mansfield Legacy grant is a blow to UM and the state of Montana, putting both at a disadvantage in terms of promoting democracy and national security.
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