Hearst Foundation Awards Augsburg $75,000 for LEAD Fellows Program

LEAD Fellows, a program of Augsburg University’s Sabo Center for Democracy and Citizenship, this winter received $75,000 from the Hearst Foundation, Inc. to support students as they pursue in-depth, long-term, community-based work at paid internships. The program name stands for Leaders for Equity, Action, and Democracy. Students spend two to four years engaged in public work projects that address social issues such as education, homelessness, racial justice, and poverty while also participating in a peer learning cohort.

The LEAD Fellows program is unique in that it offers students a pathway to generate income while also making a difference and growing as leaders. The program is cohort- based with a strong support framework that helps students to develop connections with peers and mentors, build their sense of belonging, and hone their leadership skills.

The Hearst Foundation award will fund the pay students receive for their internships and will enhance cohort activities, including semiannual retreats and biweekly gatherings.

Augsburg’s LEAD Fellows program is affiliated with the far-reaching Bonner Program that aims to transform students, communities, and campuses through service.