Nielsen Philanthropy Fellowship

The Center for Public and Nonprofit Leadership awards two $8,000 to $10,000 Fellowships to students who have a keen interest in philanthropic organizations focused on justice and systemic change. The Fellows will support the Center’s Director in the development of philanthropy teaching case studies, running the 2026 Executive Certificate in Philanthropic Leadership, and other philanthropy-related events.

Qualifications: Currently enrolled or new admit who has confirmed enrollment as a full-time student at McCourt. Ability to provide part-time support for the Executive Certificate in Philanthropic Leadership from Septebmer 14-18, 2026. Research, writing and event coordination experience required. The Fellow will be part of the Center’s team and have the opportunity to meet top leaders in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors.

Timeline: Apply by Monday, April 20 at 5:00pm ET. We will review applications on a rolling basis.

Applicants will be notified about the Fellowship awards no later than May 15, 2026.

Apply Here

If you are unable to apply through the GMS link above, please apply through this Google form. This is likely to apply to students who have been offered admission, but have not confirmed their enrollment yet.

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Luisa Boyarski at boyarskl@georgetown.edu

The fellows for the 2025-2026 academic year are:

Past fellows include:

  • Sade Cole (MPP 2025) – Nielsen Fellow 2023-2024
  • Anne Katz (MPP 2024) – Nielsen Fellow 2022-2023 – Research: Funders Together to End Homelessness
  • Constanza Alarcón Cordón (MPP 2021) – Nielsen Fellow 2020-2021
  • Emma Farber (MPP 2021) – Nielsen Fellow 2019-2020
  • Erica Turner (MPP 2020) – Nielsen Fellow 2018-2019
  • Edward Weizenegger (MPP 2018) – Nielsen Fellow 2017-2018
  • Beatrice Leydier (MPP 2017) – Nielsen Fellow 2016-2017
  • Stephanie Keller, MPP 2015
  • Althea Arnold, MPP 2011
  • Lauren Marra, MPP 2010
  • Sonya Behnke, MPP 2008
  • Pilar Oberwetter, MPP 2008
  • Catherine O’Connor, MPP 2007
  • Andy Ho, MPP & MBA 2006
  • Amanda Horwitz, MPP 2006