FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA, February 7, 2025 – Fulbright Canada is pleased to support Black History Month and celebrate the many exceptional black students and scholars who have earned a prestigious Fulbright award. Fulbright Canada honours the achievements of these scholars whose work demonstrates leadership and excellence while encouraging meaningful discussion and debate.
In honour of Black History Month, Fulbright Canada is proud to highlight four distinguished individuals whose research exemplifies the power of scholarly exchange, academic excellence and collaboration between Canada and the United States.
W. Andy Knight – Global Thought Leader and Distinguished Scholar
A leading voice in global governance, Distinguished Professor of International Relations at the University of Alberta, and 2021-22 Fulbright Canada Distinguished Chair at Yale University, W. Andy Knight has dedicated his career to research on governance and diplomacy. His influential scholarship has strengthened academic partnerships, contributed to public policy discussions, and fostered meaningful dialogue.
Zariyah Grant – Emerging Historian and Scholar
A doctoral candidate at the University of Toronto and a 2024-25 Fulbright Canada Student at Barnard College, Zariyah Grant explores key historical narratives of the 20th century, focusing specifically on the history and politics of black communities in post-WWII New York City. Her research explores pivotal under-examined moments in Black history.
Dr. Saje Mathieu – Acclaimed Historian and Author
As the 2024-25 Fulbright Canada Distinguished Chair in Arts and Social Sciences in Canada and North America at Carleton University, Dr. Saje Mathieu is researching Canada’s Black military history. Her work provides fresh perspectives on historical contributions, enhances academic discourse and enriches shared histories across the Black diaspora.
Virgil Parker – Dedicated Bridge Builder and Champion of Opportunity
A Fulbright Canada alum and ‘Fulbright Ambassador,’ Virgil Parker is committed to giving back and paying it forward. His academic work at the University of Windsor has informed his approach to building networks that support prosperity and progress. His leadership and commitment to empowering others highlight the transformative impact of academic exchange in creating future opportunities.
The accomplishments of these individuals exemplify Fulbright Canada's commitment to academic excellence and the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in advancing knowledge and leadership.
For more information about Fulbright Canada and its programs, visit www.fulbright.ca.
About Fulbright Canada
The Fulbright Program is a merit-based residential academic exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, support academic excellence, and contribute to peace, prosperity, and stability. Established in 1946, it is widely regarded as the gold standard in educational exchange and a powerful instrument of public diplomacy.
The Foundation for Educational Exchange between Canada and the United States of America (aka Fulbright Canada) operates the Fulbright program in Canada, providing exchange opportunities for exceptional students, scholars, and researchers in the two countries.