Leadership Fellows Program

three people sitting on front steps on Mandel School

7 full-tuition scholarships each year

The Leadership Fellows Program at the Mandel School is designed for exceptionally qualified, highly-motivated candidates who are interested in leadership, human service delivery and community practice.

The program awards full-tuition scholarships to highly qualified full-time students  pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW). Fellows also receive $250 per year for participating in professional development activities, such as conferences. 

The Leadership Fellows Program (LFP) was developed in consultation with Mandel School faculty, alumni, and community leaders in social services, education and philanthropy. It includes the Louis Stokes Fellowship in Community and Social Development, a full-tuition scholarship honoring the late Congressman Louis Stokes.This fellowship is awarded toa student who has demonstrated leadership in community development.

Program Highlights

  • Specialized Course: Evidence-Based Practice – Selection, Implementation, and Practice Issues (final semester)
  • Innovative Field Placements and Seminars: Focused on evidence-based practice for vulnerable populations
  • Capstone Project: An individual or group project  on implementing  evidence-based or best practices, presented at a student-led seminar in the final semester.
  • Mentoring: Fellows are matched with a community leader who provides direct support for leadership and career development.
  • Informal Group Activities: Lunches, seminars and discussions organized by the program director and the fellows

All applicants to the on-campus social work program are automatically considered for the LFP  upon submitting a completed application. The minimum undergraduate GPA requirement for consideration is 3.2.

Candidates are selected based on:

  • Stellar undergraduate performance
  • Distinguished human service or volunteer experience
  • Demonstrated leadership potential

The Review Committee will contact selected candidates for  an interview to complete the process.For more information, contact:

David L. Hussey, Ph.D., LISW-S
Associate Professor & Director of the Mandel Leadership Fellows Program