University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program
Forecasted
University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program supports graduate student leaders with training, coaching, and networks to strengthen their initiatives and advance community-focused social change.
Funder: Obama Foundation Scholars
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $10,000 stipend per Scholar for the final academic year; one-year program
Summary: Supports University of Chicago graduate student leaders with training, coaching, and networks to advance community-focused social change.
Key Information: Applicants must be entering their final master’s year at Harris, Crown Family School, or Booth and commit to the full academic year.
Description
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program, run in partnership with the University of Chicago, supports graduate student leaders already making a difference in their communities. The one-year program combines leadership development, practical training, networking, and customized support to help Scholars strengthen their initiatives and expand their impact after graduation. It emphasizes values-based leadership and an interdisciplinary approach to complex social challenges.
Scholars develop action plans for their future work, supported by executive coaching and expertise in systems thinking and fundraising. Workshops and conversations connect them with leaders across sectors and the Obama Foundation’s alumni community. With particular attention to neighborhoods near campus, Community Impact Seminars and civic treks draw on the University and Chicago’s research and civic ecosystems to connect engaged scholarship with place-based change.
