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Eisenhower Fellowships Announces 2025 USA Fellows

The Eisenhower Fellowships (EF) proudly announces the selection of nine remarkable young leaders from across the United States for its prestigious 2025 USA Program. This program, which will take place this fall, provides an incredible opportunity for these exceptional individuals to engage in intense overseas travel and rich professional exchanges.

These nine fellows come from varied fields, spanning public policy, education, health care, civic involvement, and technology, highlighting the diversity and capability of America’s future leaders. Each fellow has a proven track record of initiating impactful projects that have driven change within their communities and beyond. With backgrounds that include developing school-based health programs, innovating in STEM education, and contributing to economic development, these individuals embody the EF mission of fostering peace, wisdom, and justice through international understanding.

The fellows will embark on a transformative journey designed to engage them in meaningful dialogue with international peers and leading experts in their fields. They will gather insights, share experiences, and collaborate with a global community that drives their respective areas of expertise forward. This trip is not just about learning; it’s about creating robust networks and partnerships that can lead to substantial real-world impact upon their return.

In this fast-changing world, where global tensions and uncertainties are rampant, the ability to build strong people-to-people relationships is more important than ever. Dr. Robert M. Gates, chairman of the Eisenhower Fellowships and former U.S. Secretary of Defense, expressed pride in sending these outstanding young Americans abroad. He said, "These exchanges foster connections between emerging leaders from different backgrounds, helping to strengthen ties across borders for generations to come."

The 2025 Eisenhower Fellows include:

• - Kam Buckner: State Representative, Illinois General Assembly (Chicago, IL)
• - Sirisha Kuchimanchi: Founder and CEO, Sahita Technologies (Dallas, TX)
• - Ryan McClure: Executive Director, Gateway Arch Park Foundation (St. Louis, MO)
• - Gabriel McCormick: Senior Director of Teaching and Learning, Public Schools of Brookline (Boston, MA)
• - Kendra McDow: Medical Officer, School District of Philadelphia (Philadelphia, PA)
• - Elizabeth Pishny: Government Affairs, Google (Washington, D.C.)
• - Kenneth Smith: Integration and Test Lead, Blue Origin (Miami, FL)
• - Daniela Velázquez: Alderperson, City of St. Louis (St. Louis, MO)
• - Bryan Weisbard: Director of Product Management, DoorDash (San Francisco, CA)

Since its founding in 1953 and named in honor of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, EF has been focused on bringing together and sending abroad mid-career leaders from various fields and countries. With a vibrant network of nearly 1,900 active fellows in numerous countries, the Eisenhower Fellowships continues to inspire leaders to tackle the world's most urgent challenges with creativity and determination.

As these fellows prepare for their upcoming international experiences, they are poised not only to gain valuable insights but also to share their knowledge and perspectives with a broader audience back home. By fostering this spirit of international dialogue and collaboration, the Eisenhower Fellowships continue to cultivate a brighter future where leaders are empowered and equipped to effect meaningful change.

For those looking for more information about Eisenhower Fellowships or the 2025 USA Program, please reach out to:
Erin Hillman, Vice President of Programs and Operations
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 215-546-1738