Browne Leadership Fellows Program

Create Lasting Change as an Advocate For Social and Economic Justice

 Social Work can mean many things to many different people. At the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, we believe that engaging people, communities, and organizations will result in tangible change. We are looking for students from all disciplines who see the world through the lens of helping and who are looking to impact society in a meaningful and lasting way.

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What is the Browne Leadership Fellows program?

The Browne Leadership Fellows Program is an interdisciplinary fellowship aimed at preparing students to be engaged civic leaders working to advance economic and social justice.

The Fellowship reflects our social work mission: to advocate for social policies and resources to meet basic human needs; to create accessible, responsible, and accountable human service programs; and to deliver quality services to those in need of support.

Why should I apply to become a Browne Leadership Fellow?

Through learning, service, research, and advocacy, Browne Leadership Fellows will have an opportunity to explore the root causes of social issues and to engage in identifying effective mechanisms that create lasting change. Applied learning, leadership, and service will prepare Fellows to become the next generation of public problem solvers and civic leaders.

What does successful participation in the Fellowship look like?

The Fellowship begins in the spring term. Fellows will attend a monthly 1-credit seminar (in January, February, March, and April). Seminars expose Fellows to mentorship experiences with local community leaders, dialogue and learning circles to explore theories of social work and community engagement,  and introduces important skills needed to recognize, respect, and activate neighborhood assets for social change. The summer term will focus on community service and action projects.

The Fellowship culminates with a formal poster presentation that highlights unique learning experiences, Fellow-designed and executed community projects, and new skills developed along the way.  

Are Browne Leadership Fellows paid a stipend?

Fellows receive a generous stipend in the amount of $3,000 for the summer term (12 weeks) along with one credit for the spring term.

Who is eligible to apply to the Browne Leadership Fellows program?

The application process is competitive and open to all full-time freshman, sophomore, and juniors from all departments at the University of Pittsburgh. Students from all academic majors are encouraged to apply. The Fellowship is open to U.S. citizens and noncitizens.

What is the selection process like? How are Fellows selected?

In evaluating applicants, the selection committee looks for high-achieving students who are committed to improving the public good and who demonstrate leadership capacity.

Still have more questions?

Please contact Fellowship Manager, Aliya Durham, at aliyadurham@pitt.edu with any questions.