Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation (PSI)

William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students

The Aspen Institute Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation (PSI) in Washington, DC, offers the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship three times annually.  The fellowship, which is based on academic excellence and need, is open to both undergraduate and graduate students of color. The Hearst Fellow serves as an intern with PSI.  Through this fellowship, PSI seeks to introduce a diverse group of students to issues and challenges affecting philanthropy, social enterprise, nonprofit organizations, and other actors in the social sector.  Recipients may arrange with their colleges or universities to receive academic credit for this experience.

The Aspen Institute Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation seeks to inform and maximize the impact of grantmaking foundations, nonprofit organizations, social enterprises, and public-private partnerships through leadership development initiatives, convenings, and communications so that each can contribute to the good society at home and abroad.

Activities:
In his or her internship, the Hearst Fellow undertakes research, writing, logistical, and administrative support for PSI’s leadership initiatives, public programs, and convenings. 

Requirements:
The ideal candidate for this fellowship is a highly motivated continuing graduate or undergraduate student from an underrepresented community of color.  She or he should have an excellent academic record and also have the following:

1. Demonstrated interest or experience in nonprofit organizations, philanthropy, and the social sector;
2. Excellent research and writing skills;
3. Demonstrated financial need; and
4. U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency.

The student must be able to intern for 12-15 weeks at the Washington, DC, office of the Aspen Institute.  Fall and Spring internships will be part-time (15-20 hours per week) and Summer internships will be full-time.  All travel and housing costs must be covered by the student.

Fellowship Stipend:
A fellowship grant of approximately $2,000 will be awarded to the Fall and Spring fellows and approximately $4,000 will be awarded to the Summer fellow. 

Application Procedure:

New guidelines for applications starting for the Fall 2009 semester are in red. 

There is no application form for this fellowship.  Please send: 

1) letter of interest (include information about dates of availability for the fellowship)
2) resume
3) official transcript
4) documentation from university financial aid office demonstrating financial need (such as an offer letter)
5) two letters of recommendation to:

Lauren Stebbins
Communications Associate
Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation
The Aspen Institute
One Dupont Circle, Suite 700
Washington, DC, 20036
(202) 736-2500
lauren.stebbins@aspeninstitute.org

Official transcripts, official financial aid documentation, and recommendation letters must be:

a) sent directly to the student in sealed envelopes and then mailed to Lauren Stebbins, OR
b) sent directly from the university and/or reference to Lauren Stebbins via mail or email,

otherwise your application will not be considered.

Applications are considered three times annually based on the timing of applicants’ availability:

PLEASE NOTE: All applications must be received by the application deadline, NOT postmarked by the deadline.  Late applications will not be accepted.