Webster University

01/07/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/07/2026 14:51

Professor Kwon Earns a Grant from Americans for the Arts

Professor Kwon Earns a Grant from Americans for the Arts

January 07, 2026

Professor Jong Bum "JB" Kwon was awarded $22,500 to support research that examines the lives of young Black creatives, including their aspirations, the ways they've learned to navigate the racially charged and segregated region, and how they understand and engage with the region's arts ecosystem. Kwon is the lead researcher and principal investigator in the project, assisted by MK Sadiq, the research and evaluation manager at the Regional Arts Commission. RAC is also providing funding for workshops and interviews.

Kwon's project initially was supported with a $45,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts last year, but that funding was rescinded when the administration changed. Following official notice of cancellation, Dr. Kwon worked closely with ORSP to submit an appeal to NEA in May 2025. The appeal was denied in August 2025.

"In October 2025, the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) received notice of the Americans for the Arts National Arts Relief Fund opportunity, made available exclusively to institutions whose NEA grants were rescinded due to recent federal administrative shifts in funding priorities," said Associate Vice President of Research Eric A. Goedereis. "With only 24 hours to apply ORSP worked with Dr. Kwon to complete and submit the application to the Americans for the Arts. Special thanks to Grants Specialist Sally Knox for pulling everything together on an abbreviated timeline."

Webster was notified in late December that the funding had been approved.

"This award is significant not only in sustaining an important research initiative, but also in demonstrating Webster University's ability to successfully compete for external funding, even amid shifting and challenging federal funding landscapes," Goedereis said. "Dr. Kwon's commitment to his work, scholarship, and grantsmanship are impressive and help reinforce Webster's commitment to its mission and DEI values. We are fortunate to have strong faculty such as Dr. Kwon whose work visibly and meaningfully contributes to the local community.

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