Marge Scanlin Outstanding Research Award

Marge Scanlin was a driving force behind many of the research efforts of ACA. Upon her retirement, this award was established as an ongoing tribute to recognize Marge’s contributions by supporting emerging scholars interested in research related to camp.

Students who submit an abstract for consideration as part of the ACA Camp Research Forum have the option to submit their project for consideration for the Marge Scanlin Outstanding Student Research Award. This award is presented each year to a deserving student who has contributed to the camp research body of knowledge. The purpose of the award is to encourage students to undertake camp research and facilitate the sharing of their findings at the annual ACA national conference. Selection is based on the quality of the abstract as well as the overall contributions the student and the research project has made to the camp movement. To be eligible for the Scanlin Award, students must be the sole or first author of the abstract.

Selection is based on the quality of the abstract as well as the overall contributions the student as well as the research project has made to the camp movement. Students wishing to be accepted for the Scanlin Award should be the first author on the abstract and responsible for at least 50% of the overall project.

The student who is selected for the Scanlin Award is expected to attend the ACA National Conference to present their research. The award includes funding intended to help defray conference expenses. The student selected must be an active ACA member at the time the award is given. All student members receive complimentary registration for the conference.

For more information on the Scanlin Award, contact Dr. Ann Gillard at [email protected]

Past Award Recipients

How to Apply

When submitting your abstract for consideration for inclusion in the ACA Research Forum (held during the annual national conference), there is a checkbox that asks if you wish to be considered for the the Marge Scanlin Award. Check the box and follow the resulting instructions.

Review Criteria

Submissions for the Marge Scanlin Award will be reviewed by ACA’s Research and Evaluation Advisory Committee. Each submission will be assessed on the following criteria:

Originality
Innovation
Contributions to camp research body of knowledge
Rigor of research
Methodological soundness
Practical implications
Contribution of student to research (50% or more)

Suggestions for Abstract Submission

Refer to previous abstracts
Emphasize implications for camp practice
Follow the format suggestions closely
Clearly explain how the study provides "originality, innovation, and significant contribution to the advancement of the body of knowledge concerning the camp experience"
Abstracts will be considered on the merits of the: contribution of the student to the research (50% effort of more); rigor of the research; methodological soundness; and practical applications and contributions to the field

If you have questions or want advice and support before submitting your abstract, contact Dr. Ann Gillard at [email protected].

Learn more about the ACA Camp Research Forum Call for Proposals.

If you are interested in contributing to the Marge Scanlin Endowment please contact the ACA research team at [email protected]. All contribution amounts are accepted and appreciated.