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Wexner Israel Fellowship

Head shot of Guy Arvutzy


“In my work at the intersection of central government, local government, and the non-profit sector, I have learned that there is no shortage of good people in the public system. Many men and women wake up each morning and try to change our reality. I know them. However, they cannot do it alone. I am committed to creating bridges over these barriers and to being the interpreter between organizational and sectoral cultures."

 

-Guy Avrutzky, MC-MPA '20

 

The Wexner Foundation annually supports up to ten outstanding government and public service professionals from Israel as they pursue a one-year Mid-Career Master's Degree in Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School with the goal of providing Israel’s next generation of public leaders with superlative training.


At Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership, Fellows find a rich environment that is conducive to reflection and dialogue about Israel's policy challenges and the diverse leadership strategies that could address those challenges. Upon completing their degree, Fellows return to Israel with an advanced understanding of public management and leadership development, thus enhancing the quality of democracy and the institutional vitality of Israel’s public sector.

Application

Step 1: Apply to Harvard Kennedy School by early December 2020.
Step 2: Apply for the Fellowship by December 7, 2020.


Interviews will be conducted by the Wexner Israel Fellowship Selection Committee in late March, 2021.


Note:
Before submitting your application, we expect that you have thoroughly reviewed all pertinent information related to the Wexner Israel Fellowship, including but not limited to: program requirements, eligibility information, and the background and purpose of the fellowship, including the history and background of the donor. Being a CPL fellow carries with it certain responsibilities including maintenance of good academic standing as required by your degree program; attendance at all fellowship programming for the entire duration of the fellowship; leading program sessions and service activities including a field experience trip; and responsible conduct in representing CPL and Harvard University.

Please visit our Fellows FAQs page for more information.


Commitment to Nondiscrimination
As a matter of commitment, policy, and law, Harvard Kennedy School does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, color, race, age, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, intellectual focus, disability, or veteran status. The School strongly believes diversity enhances the value of all its activities, from research and teaching to degree programs and public events. The School encourages applications from candidates who are interested in careers in public service and acknowledges a special responsibility to train effective leaders in public policy and management.

Program Information

WHAT WE OFFER

The Wexner Israel Fellowship covers tuition, expenses, and fees at Harvard Kennedy School, as well as a generous living stipend. Wexner Israel Fellows commit themselves to at least three years of continued service in the Israeli public sector following the completion of the program. Fellows will join the Wexner Israel Fellowship Alumni community of more than 500 members and the larger alumni community of The Wexner Foundation.

ELIGIBILITY
The fellowship is open to mid-career leaders in Israel’s public sector who are admitted master’s degree program students at Harvard Kennedy School.

Applicants will be considered based on their leadership potential and commitment to public service in Israel. Successful candidates will also demonstrate excellent academic credentials. Fellowship award decisions will be primarily merit-based but with a consideration for financial need as determined by the HKS Student Financial Aid Services.

FELLOWSHIP EXPERIENCE
Fellows will participate in a proven, yearlong co-curricular program designed by Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership. This not-for-credit program is intended to inspire, provide concrete opportunities for leadership skills-building, and connect fellows with an interdisciplinary network of peers and mentors that will last a lifetime through weekly seminars and institutes devoted to the exploration of professional and personal development.

The fellowship co-curricular program includes weekly sessions, an annual retreat, workshops and an institute grounded in discussions with visionary leaders whose work will help fellows create greater impact in public service when they return to Israel.