What’s the origin of the program? 

Following the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School invited student organizers from Never Again MSD (now March For Our Lives) to campus. The organizers received mentorship and training from the Harvard community while sharing their experiences with our students. While the Institute of Politics provides opportunities to uplift leaders later in their careers, we wanted to build an initiative to uplift emerging leaders on a regular basis. 

Can I apply to be in the next cohort? 

Applications are currently closed. If you sign up for the IOP newsletter, we will notify you when applications and nominations are open again. 

Who will pay for travel? 

The Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School will provide travel and lodging for the visit to Cambridge.

How will travel work for those under the age of 18? 

We will support the travel and lodging of a teacher, guardian, or chaperone for those under the age of 18.

Who is eligible to apply?

Anyone aged 14-25 located in the United States can apply. 

When will applicants be notified? 

Applicants will be notified early in the new year.

What happens after I apply? 

A selection committee of staff and students will review application materials and reach out to selected applicants for an interview. Following the interview, a reference call may be made. All applicants will be notified of their status in the program early in the new year. 

What happens after I nominate someone? 

After nominating someone, the Institute of Politics team will reach out directly to the nominee asking them to formally apply to the program. 

What will the programming at Harvard consist of? 

The programming at Harvard will consist of meetings, events, and mentorship with Harvard community members and students, opportunities to present your work, and time to connect with fellow Emerging Leaders. 

What type of additional information or links should I provide? 

The purpose of the additional information or links section is to verify your work and provide more context to your application materials.

Does it help to be nominated?

Nominations will not give applicants an advantage in the selection process.

Please reach out to Kevin Ballen (kballen@college.harvard.edu) with any further questions.