The Truman Foundation seeks students who
aspire to positions in federal, state or local governments or in the not-for-profit sector
where they are likely to have an influence on public policies. The main criteria for
selecting Truman Scholars are leadership potential, including vision, sensitivity,
and communication skills; commitment to a career in government or elsewhere in public
service; and intellectual strength and prospects of performing well in graduate school.
Successful nominees must have an extensive record of public and community service.
Up to 85 Truman Scholarships will be awarded on
the basis of merit to juniors at four year universities and colleges. A Truman
Scholarship provides up to $30,000. Scholars selected as juniors are eligible to receive
$3,000 for the senior year of undergraduate education and $27,000 for graduate studies.
Scholars in graduate programs planning to receive degrees in one to two years are eligible
to receive $13,500 per year. Scholars in graduate programs requiring three or more years
of academic study are eligible to receive $9,000 per year for a maximum of three years.
Each year one "state" scholarship is
available to a qualified resident nominee of each of the 50 states. In addition, the
Foundation typically selects up to 32 "at-large" scholars. Scholars may attend
graduate school in the United States or in foreign countries.
Four Concordia students have received a Truman
Scholarship. Our most recent Truman Scholar is Ms. Susan Webb of Fargo.
The complete nomination package for candidates
from four year institutions must be received by the Truman Scholarship Foundation in
January. For more information, application materials, and advice on the application
process, contact Professor Max Richardson, Chair, Political Science Department, Old Main
310. However, you should first visit the Truman Foundation webpage at www.truman.gov for an excellent summary of what
the Foundation is looking for in applicants.
