2 from Pitt’s children’s literature program earned a fellowship to work with social justice nonprofits

Brittney Knotts and Christine Case, both recent children's literature and childhood studies PhD students in Pitt’s Department of English, were awarded Leading Edge Fellowships from the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS).

ACLS places fellows across the country, but both Pitt PhDs have been appointed to placements with social justice nonprofits in Washington, D.C., for the next two years. The program, which aims to advance social justice and equity, helps scholars apply humanistic knowledge and methods outside of the academy.

Case (A&S ’21G) will work as a narrative strategy specialist for the Childrens' Defense Fund. In her position, Case incorporate the perspectives of children, youth, parents and caregivers into the fund’s research and communication efforts to “elevate a new narrative framework for child well-being” and understand what children need to thrive. She previously held a summer micro-internship in higher education with Pitt Graduate Studies.

Knotts (A&S ’22G) was appointed as youth activation program coordinator for Vital Voices. As program coordinator, Knotts will support and expand the reach of Rising Voices, the organization’s leadership development program for young women.