The global non-profit organization Eisenhower Fellowships contributes to human prosperity through the exchange and cooperation of emerging leaders from around the world. Established in 1953 to honor the accomplishments of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the organization continues his meaningful work as a soldier, politician, and world leader. Since its founding, approximately 2,000 men and women have gone through the program.
Founded on October 13, 1953, by Philadelphia entrepreneur Thomas Bayard McCabe, Eisenhower Fellowships began its journey by raising $125,000 in donations in its first year. The fellowship program, initially held only once a year, expanded in scale after receiving a $600,000 grant from the Ford Foundation in 1956. In 1961, the program officially recognized its commitment to diversity by selecting its first female fellow, Dr. Fila G. Villegas.
In the 1980s, former President Gerald Ford and John Eisenhower helped secure a $7.5 million congressional grant, ensuring financial stability. During this period, the "Single Nation Program" was created, and in 1989, the American Fellows Program was re-established after 26 years, growing to include 50 fellows annually. In 1990, the organization held its Second World Forum, titled "From Community to Partnership," where more than 200 fellows from around the world gathered to discuss the importance of international cooperation.
Global Leadership Blossoms Through Diversity
Eisenhower Fellowships holds diversity as a core value. It emphasizes professional, ethnic, racial, gender, and geographic diversity as essential elements of the program, and it seeks out innovative leaders in various fields from all over the world. Currently, there are fellow selection committees in 48 countries and six regions within the United States (New England, Philadelphia, Research Triangle-NC, St. Louis, Chicago, and Los Angeles).
The program is held twice a year. There is the Global Fellows Program for leaders from around the world and the Fall Program, which focuses on a specific country, region, or field. In 2020, the organization also created the Global Scholar Program for college graduates, providing opportunities for young talent.
Honoring Outstanding Leadership: The Eisenhower Medal
Since 1988, the organization has presented the Dwight D. Eisenhower Medal for Leadership and Service annually to an outstanding leader. The medal is awarded to individuals who have made a significant impact on society, such as entrepreneurs, politicians, and public figures. Past recipients include former Presidents Gerald Ford and George H. W. Bush, as well as former Secretaries of State Colin Powell and Henry Kissinger.
Paraguay and Eisenhower Fellowships
Eisenhower Fellowships has also produced several leaders from Paraguay, and the fellowship program is open to applicants from the country. Eligibility requirements include excellent English proficiency, the ability to participate full-time during the program, and a strong commitment to contributing to social change. Over approximately six weeks, fellows complete individual projects and build a global network by interacting with experts in their fields and fellow leaders through in-person and online programs in the United States.
Eisenhower Fellowships aims to continue fostering cross-border dialogue and cooperation among leaders to create a "more peaceful, prosperous, and just world."
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