Penn IUR Fellows in Urban Leadership

The Penn IUR Fellows in Urban Leadership Program (FUL) connects undergraduates interested in urban issues with high-level government, business, and civil leaders to inspire them to become tomorrow’s urban leaders. Each month, Fellows talk with leaders about the rewards and challenges of creating more resilient, equitable, and sustainable cities. Small intimate meetings allow local and regional leaders to share insights and advice as well as talk frankly about their work.

Click here to watch a short video about the program. 

Fellow Experience

  • Monthly sessions: Meet with public and civic sector leaders from September through April for two hours on Friday afternoons. When in-person, sessions include lunch. Light background reading is provided before each session, to ensure all Fellows are prepared to dive into the conversation. Monthly sessions are off-the record, providing an opportunity for frank and honest discussions among guests and Fellows. As a result, students gain personal connections, advice, and insights.
  • Guests: Fellows talk with former mayors, current elected city officials, city agency directors, and presidents of civic organizations. Leaders are invited across a wide variety of areas, including environmental sustainability, housing, city finances, real estate, transportation, and health services. Past speakers have included have included Patrick Brett, Managing Director, Strategic Venture Investing, Citibank; Chandan Deuskar, Urban Development Specialist, The World Bank; Anne Fadullon, Director, Department of Planning and Development, City of Philadelphia; Lorraine Grillo, Former First Deputy Mayor, City of New York; Jaime Gauthier, District 3 Councilmember, City of Philadelphia; and Michael Nutter, Former Mayor, City of Philadelphia, among others.
  • Meet current and previous Fellows: 2023-2024 Fellows, 2022-2023 Fellows2021-22 Fellows, 2020-21 Fellows

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be rising juniors or senior undergraduates; exceptional sophomore applications will also be considered.
  • Have a track record of academic excellence.
  • Demonstrate an interest in urban issues.
  • Commit to a full academic year.

Application process

Applications for 2024-25 cohort will open in late March 2024. The application will be due May 31, 2024.

Applications will be considered complete only after all materials are submitted, including:

  • 500 word essay demonstrating an interest in urban issues
  • Most recent transcript showing academic excellence
  • Faculty Recommendation Letter 

Application Link

Recommendation Link

Semi-finalists will be notified and interviewed in early June. Selected Fellows will be notified by the end of June.

Questions?

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