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Kerry Whigham is preparing for a unique opportunity, one that has the potential to shape how genocide and mass atrocity studies are taught across the world: a six-week residency in Paris as part of the prestigious .

Whigham, a professor at ������Ƶ’s Institute for Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention, has been awarded a Fulbright Specialist Award that will allow him to work alongside experts to exchange knowledge and establish partnerships benefiting participants, institutions and communities both in the U.S. and overseas through a variety of educational and training activities within education.

“This award is an incredible honor,” Whigham said. “This project is about making genocide education more adaptable to different regions and histories. Many countries have their own histories of mass violence, and we need an approach that reflects the reality of those regions rather than focusing solely on a Western perspective. I am excited to be a part of this shift.”

The Fulbright Specialist Program, sponsored by the United States Department of State, pairs leading scholars with institutions around the world for short-term, high-impact exchanges. Each year, only about 400 experts across various fields receive these awards.

Whigham’s selection to the program was the result of his credentials and good timing. “My listing on the Fulbright list was about to expire when I got the call,” he said. “UNESCO particularly needed an individual who has experience in genocide prevention and education, and that is my area of expertise. It was perfect.”

Whigham’s work with UNESCO is more than a personal achievement — it also enhances ������Ƶ’s reputation as a leader in atrocity prevention education. Through I-GMAP, the University has already made strong international connections, and this collaboration could result in student field placements, faculty research and future collaborations with UNESCO.

“This partnership may pave the way for future research projects, student placements at UNESCO, and ongoing knowledge sharing,” he said. Our goal is to create a global network of academics, educators and decision-makers who are dedicated to stopping mass tragedies. An important step in that approach is this initiative.”

Beyond his efforts with UNESCO, Whigham views education as a frontline defense against emerging threats to human rights globally. “We are witnessing a global regression in the commitment to human rights. We must prepare the future generation to actively prevent violence and discrimination,” he said.

After his time with UNESCO, Whigham has no plans to slow down. He is currently leading I-GMAP global research on protecting forcibly displaced communities and turning a State Department-funded study on memorial sites and genocide prevention into a book.

“There’s always more to do,” he said. “However, this Fulbright experience is a special chance to create the groundwork for significant, lasting change — not only at UNESCO, but in classrooms and communities worldwide.”