The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program is a program funded by the U.S. Department of State, administered by Howard University, that attracts and prepares outstanding young people for Foreign Service careers in the U.S. Department of State.   It welcomes the application of members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department, women, and those with financial need. Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, social, and geographic diversity. 

  

The Pickering Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to promote positive change in the world.  Upon successful completion of a two-year master’s degree program and fulfillment of Foreign Service entry requirements, fellows have the opportunity to work as Foreign Service Officers in accordance with applicable law and State Department policy, serving in Washington, DC and at a U.S. embassy, consulate, or diplomatic mission around the globe.   Fellows also agree to a minimum five-year service commitment in the Department of State’s Foreign Service.  The five-year service commitment begins upon entry into the Foreign Service. 

  

The Program provides graduate fellowships to qualified college seniors and college graduates committed to joining the Foreign Service.  The fellowship helps finance two-year graduate programs, provides two summer internships, offers mentoring from a Foreign Service Officer, and provides other professional development activities.  The program continues to ensure that the Foreign Service reflects the face of America to foreign audiences and provides a source of trained women and men who are dedicated to pursuing Foreign Service careers with the Department of State and representing America’s interests abroad. 


Government

Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program

Clayton Bond

Kristina Canady

Emmebet Selassie

Piyusha Mittal

Michael Henry

Lelia Jo Dusthimer

Kristina Mason

Dexter Maryland

Ayanna Camara

Angeline Gonzalez

Elyse Okwu

The Fellowship Programs team at the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program is dedicated to selecting, mentoring, and supporting outstanding candidates from diverse backgrounds for careers in the U.S. Foreign Service. They oversee the recruitment process, provide guidance throughout the fellowship journey, and facilitate professional development opportunities, ensuring participants are well-prepared to serve and represent America's interests abroad. The team plays a crucial role in fostering diversity and inclusion in the diplomatic workforce.

Fellowship Programs

Fellowship Programs

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Team members