Jill Knox Fellowship Unites Humor and Peacebuilding for 2026 Cohort

Applications are now open for the 2026 Jill Knox Peace Through Humor Fellowship. This unique program supports students and professionals in peace studies. It provides professional development through the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor’s Humor Academy. The application deadline is November 15, 2025.The fellowship aims to bridge the gap between conflict resolution and intentional humor. It offers a three-year curriculum designed to build practical skills. Selected fellows will learn to apply humor to enhance their work in peacebuilding.

Fellowship Offers Comprehensive Support and Training

The award covers all major program costs for three years. This includes full Humor Academy tuition and annual conference registration. Fellows also receive a travel stipend and ongoing mentorship from AATH experts.The program begins with an in-person session before the AATH Annual Conference. Participants then continue their training through monthly virtual meetings. This blended approach ensures deep engagement with the material over the long term.

Building a New Tool for Global Conflict Resolution

This initiative represents a growing recognition of humor’s role in diplomacy. It provides a novel toolkit for those working in tense environments. The goal is to foster more creative and effective peacebuilders.Fellows will ultimately produce a written project on humor in peace studies. This research can be either applied or theoretical in its focus. The work will contribute valuable knowledge to the field.

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The Jill Knox Peace Through Humor Fellowship marks a significant step in professional peacebuilding. It formally integrates levity as a serious component of conflict resolution. This innovative approach could reshape how future agreements are forged.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is eligible for the Jill Knox Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to students, faculty, and professionals in peace studies. Applicants must be able to attend events in the United States. This means holding a valid U.S. visa or not requiring one for entry.

What does the fellowship award include?

The award covers Humor Academy tuition and annual conference fees. It also provides a conference travel stipend and AATH membership. Recipients gain access to a dedicated mentorship network.

What is the time commitment for the Humor Academy?

The program requires a three-year commitment from participants. It starts with an onsite conference event each year. Fellows also attend monthly virtual meetings throughout the program.

What is the final project for the fellowship?

Fellows must complete a written project by the end of their second year. The topic must focus on humor in peace studies or conflict resolution. The project must be approved by the program advisors.

When will applicants be notified of the decision?

All applicants will be informed of the selection committee’s decision. Notifications will be sent no later than December 15, 2025. This follows the November 15 application deadline.