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The Partnership for Academic Leadership in Sustainability (PALS) has awarded 2026 Curriculum Development Grants to two Kansas City Art Institute faculty members.

Professor Julie Farstad received a grant for Elemental Drawing: A Locally Sourced Material Curriculum (Painting and Social Practice), while Assistant Professor Alison Wood was recognized for Junk to Gem (Product Design).

The PALS Curriculum Development Grant supports arts and design faculty in creating learning experiences that move beyond awareness to inspire action. Through creativity, collaboration, and critical reflection, the grant helps faculty develop courses that empower students to explore sustainable practices, imagine new possibilities, and make meaningful contributions through their creative work.

PALS is a collaborative network of faculty and staff from colleges of art and design committed to advancing sustainability in higher education. Founded at Pratt Institute in 2010, the initiative brings together participants from across the Association of Independent Colleges of Art & Design (AICAD) through annual summits, working groups, and shared resources. More than 45 colleges and universities and over 100 faculty, staff, and administrators have participated in the network, bringing new approaches to sustainability in curriculum, programming, and creative practice back to their institutions.

Grant funds support projects that advance sustainability in art and design education, including innovative studio and lab materials, faculty curriculum development, and professional development opportunities that lead to new teaching practices and material exploration.