Eighteen emerging leaders from the University of Chicago have been selected to the latest cohort of the Obama Foundation Scholars program, it was announced on Sept. 5.
The University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program will include students from the Booth School of Business, the Harris School of Public Policy and the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. The unique program’s curriculum will allow scholars to explore the connection between local involvement and global impact, paving the way for innovative solutions to complex challenges. Ten of the 18 UChicago scholars in the program are committed to continuing their work in Chicago, including in the communities near the future Obama Presidential Center, after completing the program.
“The University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program fosters intense learning experiences for students as they learn to tackle complex problems and more deeply engage with communities in Chicago and across the globe,” said University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos. “It helps these rising leaders build upon the education and skills they receive in their respective graduate programs at the University to make an impact in the areas they identify in order to be of service to communities across the world.”
The Obama Foundation Scholars program provides scholars with exposure to real-world skills, tools and experiences that will expand the impact of their work when they return home. Scholars participate in academic, skills-based and experiential learning, as well as Foundation-led leadership programming that includes training, networking opportunities and personalized support beyond graduation.
“We’re thrilled to welcome another group of exceptional changemakers into the Obama Foundation family,” said Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett. “These scholars bring with them a wealth of talent, passion, and a deep commitment to making a difference in their communities and beyond. By joining our global network of leaders, they will not only gain valuable insights and support but also contribute to a collective effort to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. We are confident that, together, they will maximize their potential and make their local impact global.”
Since its inception in 2018, the Obama Foundation Scholars program has supported 161 leaders from 67 countries. This year’s cohort includes 30 leaders from UChicago and Columbia University, who are working to make an impact, both here and abroad—from increasing access to health care in Chicago to mobilizing youth in Pakistan. They were chosen from a record number of applicants from across the world; this year’s group includes scholars from Haiti, Italy, Fiji, Malaysia and Morocco.
To read the full story from UChicago News and see the list of this year's scholars, click here.
