The Center for Documentary Studies (CDS) opened its doors at Duke University in 1990 as the first university-affiliated institution in the United States dedicated to documentary fieldwork as an interdisciplinary mode of inquiry, drawing upon photography, filmmaking, audio, oral history, folklore, writing and – more recently – multimedia as catalysts for education and change. CDS supports the active examination of contemporary society through artistic expression, the recognition of collaboration as central to documentary work, and the presentation of experiences that heighten historical and cultural awareness. CDS is recognized nationally and internationally for its pioneering work, conducted through courses; research; oral history and other fieldwork; gallery, online, and traveling exhibitions; annual awards; book publishing; radio and other audio programs; community-based projects; and public events. The Lewis Hine Documentary Fellows Program is part of a longstanding commitment to youth-focused work at the Center for Documentary Studies.