The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is now accepting applications from rising leaders around the world who are making a meaningful impact in their communities. Offered in partnership with Columbia University and the University of Chicago, this prestigious leadership development program equips changemakers with advanced academic learning, practical leadership training, global networking opportunities, and personalized support to help scale their impact.
Designed for individuals with a demonstrated commitment to public service, social innovation, and community leadership, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program brings together exceptional leaders from diverse backgrounds who are committed to addressing today’s most pressing global challenges.
About the Obama Foundation Scholars Program
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program empowers emerging leaders by combining academic study with leadership development, experiential learning, and global collaboration.
Throughout the academic year, Scholars participate in a comprehensive curriculum that helps them strengthen their leadership abilities, develop innovative solutions to complex societal challenges, and expand the impact of their work after returning to their communities.
The program also fosters lifelong relationships among leaders from around the world, creating a diverse global network committed to collaboration, service, and positive social change.
Partner Universities
The Obama Foundation offers the Scholars Program through two world-renowned institutions:
- Columbia University
- University of Chicago
Each university provides a unique academic experience while participating in Foundation-led leadership development activities that bring both cohorts together throughout the year.
Scholars benefit from the research ecosystems, faculty expertise, and professional networks available in both New York City and Chicago.
Program Benefits
Participants receive access to a wide range of leadership and professional development opportunities, including:
- World-class academic learning.
- Leadership development curriculum.
- Professional coaching.
- Executive leadership mentoring.
- Networking with global leaders.
- Customized communications support.
- Fundraising guidance.
- Community of international changemakers.
- Access to Obama Foundation alumni network.
- Practical leadership skills for long-term impact.
The program is designed to help participants strengthen both their organizations and their leadership capacity.
Key Components of the Program
Leadership Convenings
Scholars participate in in-person gatherings in Chicago that bring participants together to:
- Build community.
- Participate in leadership workshops.
- Learn from organizations driving community change.
- Exchange ideas with fellow Scholars.
Leadership Workshops
Throughout the year, Scholars attend workshops and conversations focused on:
- Leadership development.
- Storytelling.
- Values-based leadership.
- Strategic decision-making.
- Personal resilience.
- Social innovation.
- Public service.
These sessions feature experienced practitioners and thought leaders from various sectors.
Action Plan Development
Each Scholar develops and refines a personalized action plan designed to strengthen the impact of their initiative after completing the program.
The action plan helps participants translate new knowledge into measurable community outcomes.
Global Networking
Participants gain lifelong access to a growing international community of Obama Foundation Scholars and alumni.
The Foundation facilitates meaningful connections among current Scholars and previous cohorts working on similar issues across different regions of the world.
Individual Coaching
Scholars receive tailored professional support, including:
- Executive coaching.
- Strategic communications advice.
- Fundraising guidance.
- Leadership mentoring.
- Personalized development support.
This coaching helps participants implement their action plans more effectively while advancing their leadership journey.
Who Should Apply?
The program is designed for emerging leaders who:
- Have demonstrated leadership in their communities.
- Are actively working to solve significant social challenges.
- Have a strong commitment to public service.
- Are dedicated to creating lasting positive change.
- Want to strengthen the impact of their organizations or initiatives.
- Are interested in collaborating with leaders from around the world.
Applicants come from diverse professional backgrounds, including:
- Nonprofit organizations.
- Government.
- Public policy.
- Education.
- Healthcare.
- Human rights.
- Climate action.
- Youth development.
- Technology for social good.
- Entrepreneurship.
- Community development.
What Scholars Gain
Participants graduate with:
- Enhanced leadership skills.
- Expanded global professional networks.
- Practical tools for organizational growth.
- Greater strategic thinking abilities.
- Stronger fundraising and communication skills.
- Increased collaboration opportunities.
- Long-term access to the Obama Foundation community.
The experience is designed to help Scholars return to their communities better equipped to lead meaningful and sustainable change.
Current Global Community
The Obama Foundation Scholars community includes exceptional leaders from every region of the world representing diverse sectors and areas of expertise.
Each cohort reflects the Foundation’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global collaboration, bringing together individuals who are addressing challenges ranging from education and healthcare to climate resilience, economic development, technology, democracy, and social justice.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should:
- Choose the Obama Foundation Scholars Program at either Columbia University or the University of Chicago.
- Review the eligibility criteria and application requirements.
- Prepare the required application materials.
- Complete the online application before the published deadline.
- Participate in the selection process if shortlisted.
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early, as the program is highly competitive and attracts outstanding leaders from across the globe.
Why Apply?
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is one of the world’s leading leadership development opportunities for emerging changemakers. By combining academic excellence with practical leadership training, executive coaching, global networking, and personalized support, the program enables participants to transform innovative ideas into sustainable solutions that create lasting impact in their communities.
Graduates become part of a lifelong international network committed to advancing inclusive leadership, public service, and positive social change.
Conclusion
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program offers an exceptional opportunity for rising leaders to strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their global networks, and accelerate the impact of their work. Whether through Columbia University or the University of Chicago, Scholars receive the knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to become even more effective agents of change.
If you are committed to solving complex challenges and creating meaningful change in your community, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program could be the next step in your leadership journey.
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