Maxwell’s 11^th cohort of Humphrey Fellows has started its yearlong program of graduate study, professional development, and cultural exchange. The 11 fellows from 10 emerging democracies and developing countries are among the year’s approximately 151 scholars from 96 countries. Syracuse University is one of 13 campuses across the country to host Humphrey Fellows.

Syracuse’s 2019-20 fellows hail from Belarus, Brazil, Burkina Faso, India, Latvia, Panama, Pakistan, Russia, South Korea, and Tunisia. The midcareer professionals bring a variety of work and academic experience, including public finance, political science, media, engineering, economics, and defense.

The diverse professional and cultural experiences of Humphrey Fellows fit well with Maxwell’s collaborative, interdisciplinary ethos and emphasis on public service. Fellows commit to taking best practices and new perspectives they learn at Maxwell and returning to their native countries as leaders in improving the NGOs, government ministries, and private businesses where they work.

The fellows also come to Maxwell with ambitious learning goals that reflect diverse interests and skills. Professional skills they hope to build include technology literacy, technology management, infrastructure development, public sector leadership, and human resources management.

Humphrey Fellows benefit from Maxwell’s rich scholarly tradition and real-world perspectives in its professional programs. In addition, the program’s structure and emphasis on engagement allows participants to create international networks of colleagues and develop strong leadership skills by interacting with, learning from, and sharing with many constituencies of the Syracuse community.

“The key elements are exchange, engagement, and impact,” said Margaret Lane, director of Syracuse’s Fellowship Program at Syracuse University. “Deep, substantive engagement benefits everyone and reinforces the commitment to public service that fellows and members of the Maxwell and Central New York community value.”

At Syracuse, fellows engage with students and faculty in Maxwell and other colleges. Engagement opportunities include sharing their perspectives in 20- to 30-minute Peer to Peer Presentations or speaking to civic organizations, such as local rotaries or schools. Fellows may serve as resources for faculty, classes, clubs, and organizations. They also connect with the community through volunteer service and through relationships with host families.

Approximately 126 fellows from 70 different countries have called the Maxwell School and Syracuse University home during their fellowship year since 2009.

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program began in 1978 to honor the late Senator and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and his lifelong commitment to international cooperation and public service. The fellowship is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by the Institute of International Education.

09/13/19