We are delighted to welcome Alexes Harris, Presidential Term Professor and Professor of Sociology at the University of Washington, to the William T. Grant Scholars Selection Committee, effective July 1, 2025.
Launched in 1982, the William T. Grant Scholars Program supports the professional development of promising early-career researchers in the social, behavioral, and health sciences. The Selection Committee, composed of accomplished senior scientists in their respective fields, screens all applications before inviting a small group of finalists to interview at the Foundation’s New York City office. After interviewing the finalists, the committee selects the newest class of Scholars.
Dr. Harris’ work spans the criminal legal system, including juvenile, case processing outcomes, and monetary sanctions, and centers on issues of inequality, poverty and race in United States’ legal systems. Her book, “A Pound of Flesh: Monetary Sanctions as a Punishment for the Poor,” details the ways in which sentenced fines and fees put an undue burden on disadvantaged populations and place them under even greater supervision of the criminal legal system.
“I am very excited to participate in the William T. Grant Scholars Selection Committee. Especially in this moment, it is important to support the research and development of early-career researchers – particularly those conducting work in the areas of reducing inequality and improving the use of research evidence by decision makers. I am honored to work with colleagues across the nation to support the development and mentoring of scholars whose work will make a great impact in their respective fields.” Dr. Harris said.
“Dr. Harris’ extensive experience researching inequality in the criminal legal system will strengthen the composition of the Scholars Selection Committee and enrich our deliberations. We are excited to welcome her to the committee and look forward to working together to identify and support the next cohorts of William T. Grant Scholars,” said Senior Program Officer Melissa Wooten, who manages the Scholars program.
