A new partnership has been signed between Keele University and a US scholarship foundation for students pursuing careers in public service. 

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation, founded as a living memorial to the 33rd US President, has signed the agreement with Keele to bring five “Truman Scholars” to the university for postgraduate study. 

Opportunities created by the partnership will focus on key “grand challenges”, some of which are covered by Keele’s existing Global Challenge Pathways, with themes such as climate change, sustainability, and social justice. 

Truman Scholars receive an award of up to $22,500 for one-year graduate programmes, and will also participate in leadership development activities, and have special opportunities for internships and employment with the US federal government. 

Professor Bela Arora, from Keele’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, will oversee the university’s commitment to the programme and support the academic and professional development of the visiting Scholars. 

She said: “Successful Truman Scholars will have already demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and dedication to public service before joining their chosen graduate programmes. I am delighted that Keele will be able to support the candidates in their academic and professional development journey.  Keele has a strong track record of supporting and nurturing change-makers, and we look forward to welcoming Truman Scholars to our community.”