Fellows are hosted by government agencies honored by the Innovations in American Government Awards Program, which has promoted excellence and creativity in the public sector for over 20 years by recognizing and disseminating the country’s most exemplary innovations in federal, state, and local government. Awards are given across all policy areas, including but not limited to criminal justice, education, public management, technology, community development, social services, and the environment.

This fellowship is designed to prepare innovative and creative students for careers in the public sector. Ash Summer Fellows have the opportunity to take part in a meaningful real-world project on the cutting edge of public sector innovation. Fellows work with some of the most creative and effective public officials in the country in preparing and implementing strategies for disseminating the winning innovation to other agencies across the country. The Institute plans to support three to four Ash Summer Fellows in Innovation in 2009.

To apply, please complete the application and submit the following additional materials to bruce_jackan@ksg.harvard.edu, fax: 5-4948:

• Resume
• Transcript (unofficial is acceptable)
• Faculty recommendation (an email endorsement is acceptable)
• Short explanation (250 words) of why you are interested in this fellowship and how it complements your HKS studies.

The application deadline is February 11, 2009 for 2009 summer fellowships.

Project Proposals

Acquisition Fund - City of New York, New York (2008 IAG Winner): The Acquisition Fund is a $230 million partnership that finances the purchase of land and buildings for affordable housing. Private finance tools allow smaller developers to compete in a tough market.

Division of Youth Services - State of Missouri (2008 IAG Winner): The Division of Youth Services rehabilitates juvenile delinquents through small, humane treatment centers, characterized by rigorous treatment, education, and extensive family and community engagement. The "Missouri Model" has achieved cost effectiveness through transforming young people into law-abiding and productive citizens.

Getting Ready: Keeping Communities Safe - State of Arizona (2008 IAG Winner): The Department of Corrections’ real world re-entry effort, Getting Ready, begins the day inmates are admitted and continues throughout their sentence. This system-wide reform measurably reduces relapse, revocations, and recidivism.

Solid Waste and Energy Management - Yukon River Tribes, Alaska (2008 IAG Finalist): Sixty-six indigenous tribes have improved the solid waste systems on the Yukon River, removing six million pounds of hazardous materials and recyclables through “backhauling” – loading waste onto planes and barges that would otherwise return to the mainland empty.