Ash Institute Ash Institute for Democratic Governance and Innovation Harvards Kennedy School of Government Harvard University

Visit Asia Programs website






2008 Ash Summer Fellowships in Innovation

Ash Summer Fellows are hosted by government agencies affiliated with our Innovations in American Government Awards Program, which has promoted excellence and creativity in the public sector for 20 years by recognizing and disseminating the country’s most exemplary innovations in federal, state, and local government. This fellowship is designed to prepare innovative and creative students for careers in the public sector. Ash Summer Fellows have the opportunity to be part of a meaningful real-world project on the cutting edge of public sector innovation. Fellows will work with some of the most creative and effective public officials in the country.

2008 Ash Summer Fellows in Innovation

  • Cheryl Scott MPP ’09 - Scott’s Fellowship will be hosted by the City of Chicago Police Department, where she will work on project related to their innovative CLEARpath program. Scott will attend neighborhood beat meetings to gather feedback for future CLEARpath development and help promote the system.
  • Sara Qutub MPP ’09 - Qutub’s Fellowship will be hosted by the City of Seattle, where she will help the city prepare its infrastructure, systems, and operations for the impacts of climate change. Qutub will present her findings and associated policy briefing to Seattle Mayor Nickels.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much funding does the Ash Summer Fellowship provide?

The program will provide $7,000 for an 8-10 week fellowship over the summer.

Who is eligible?
Any HKS student who has completed two semesters of course work and is returning to the Harvard Kennedy School for the coming fall semester. While experience in the local, state, or federal government is not required, a strong desire to join the public sector after graduation is important.

Where would I be working?
Government agencies affiliated with our Innovations in American Government (IAG) Awards Program will host the Ash Summer Fellows. Host agencies will be different each year, but all Fellows will work on a substantive project related to the innovation for which their host agency has been recognized.

How do I apply?
To apply, please submit the following:

  • Resume documenting relevant experience and past achievements
  • Short essay (500 words or less) on interest in government innovation and future career goals
  • Your first and second choice/preference for host agencies from the above list
  • Unofficial transcripts from current Fall semester