Georgetown University’s Justice and Peace Studies (JUPS) Program Celebrates 10 Years as a Major

October 25, 2024 — Georgetown University’s Justice and Peace Studies (JUPS) Program celebrated a milestone yesterday with its “JUPS is 10!” event, marking a decade since the program became an official major. Students, faculty, and alumni gathered to honor the achievements of the JUPS program and its visionary founder, Professor Mark Lance, who is also stepping into retirement after more than thirty years of dedicated service to the university.

The event featured an alumni panel moderated by Dr. Andria Wisler, in which four JUPS alumni shared reflections on their journeys through the major and its profound impact on their personal and professional lives. Their stories highlighted how JUPS has fostered a commitment to justice and peace across diverse fields, underscoring the program’s unique role in shaping advocates for social change.

Program director Dr. Elham Atashi announced the establishment of the Justice and Peace Studies “Founder Mark Lance Award,” an annual accolade named in honor of Emeritus Professor Lance. Beginning in spring 2025, the award will be presented to a graduating JUPS senior who exemplifies grassroots organizing and social justice activism. This annual recognition will celebrate Professor Lance’s legacy and commitment to student-driven change and advocacy in the pursuit of peace and justice.

The JUPS program, grounded in experiential learning and social justice, has flourished under Professor Lance’s guidance, inspiring students and alumni alike to become active voices in their communities. The “JUPS is 10!” celebration honored these contributions and promised to carry forward the program’s legacy into a new chapter.