Barbara Jordan Health Policy Scholars Program 2011 at Kaiser Family Foundation

The Barbara Jordan Health Policy Scholars Program brings talented college seniors and recent graduates to Washington, D.C., where they are placed in congressional offices and learn about health policy issues, with a focus on issues affecting racial and ethnic minority and underserved communities. Through the ten-week program (May 23, 2011 through August 6, 2011), Scholars gain knowledge about federal legislative procedure and health policy issues, while further developing their critical thinking and leadership skills. In addition to gaining experience in a congressional office, Scholars participate in seminars and site visits to augment their knowledge of health care issues, and write and present a health policy research memo that addresses a problem of concern to disadvantaged populations.

Aim : The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation established the Barbara Jordan Health Policy Scholars Program at Howard University to honor the legacy of former Foundation Trustee and Congresswoman Barbara Jordan and to expand the pool of students in the field of health policy who are interested in issues affecting racial and ethnic minority and underserved communities. As a member of the United States Congress and the Texas State Legislature, Barbara Jordan’s distinguished career was exemplified by her tireless advocacy of behalf of vulnerable populations. She brought this passion to her work, inspiring others to become involved in addressing challenging health policy issues.
Benefits : Scholars receive approximately $7,500 in support, which includes:
* A stipend of $2,000 upon successful completion of the program;
* A daily expense allowance for meals and local transportation;
* Transportation/airfare to and from Washington, D.C.; and
* Lodging at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

In the event that a college or university will award credit(s) for participation in the program, Howard University will submit or facilitate the submission of all official documentation necessary to obtain such credit(s).

Eligibility : Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens who will be a senior or a recent graduate (a person who graduated in September 2008 or later) of an accredited U.S. college or university in the fall of 2011. Graduate students and individuals with an advanced degree are not eligible to apply. Successful applicants will show evidence of academic achievement and will demonstrate the following:
* Be a member of a population that is adversely affected by racial or ethnic disparities in health; and/or
* Have experience working in or with programs that address health issues disproportionately affecting racial and ethnic minorities or underserved communities (e.g. local health departments, community health centers, inner city/rural hospitals or organizations that conduct research on or develop policy related to health or healthcare disparities) or have done previous academic work (e.g. taken courses, written papers or participate in research projects) related to health disparities.

Programme Dates : The nine-week program runs from May 23, 2011 through August 6, 2011.

Application Procedure : The application is completely web-based. In order to complete the application, you will need the following pieces of information:
* an electronic copy of your resume,
* an electronic copy of your official transcript,
* a list of extracurricular activities, and
* the email addresses for at least two references (one of whom must be a faculty member).

Online Registration : For Online Registration Click bjscholars.kff.org/applications/homepages/display_page.php?form_homepage_id=1

Application Deadline : All application materials, including letters of recommendation, are due by 5 pm ET December 3, 2010.