The application deadline for those wishing to apply for a fellowship to attend the June or July session of the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government is only two weeks away. All applications must be postmarked by February 21. The fellowship covers all program fees which include tuition, housing, curricular materials, and most meals. To review the actual program announcement and for a link to the Kennedy School of Government - Harvard University program website, refer to the following URL: http://www.usfa.fema.gov/media/press/2012releases/010912.shtm 2012 Program Criteria and Guidelines . The application is open to senior fire executives who have demonstrated significant career accomplishments and have the potential to impact and initiate change. Attainment of a senior position is less important than demonstrated experience in facilitating significant change within a public sector setting. . Preference may be given to applicants who are graduates of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program, although program completion is not a prerequisite. Preference may also be given to applicants who have completed graduate-level degree programs or course work. . Individuals whose organizations have been represented in the Harvard Fellowship Program during 2009, 2010, or 2011 will not be considered. . The program is available to international participants. . Finalists for the Harvard Fellowships will be asked to develop and present a five-year plan during their interview session, describing how they will use the opportunity if awarded a Fellowship, to enhance Fire-EMS services at the local, regional, tribal, state/province/territory, and at a national or international level. If selected as a finalist, more details will be provided. As in the past, selected Fellows can expect in the future to be contacted by any of the fellowship sponsors to assist and support ongoing projects to utilize their specialized knowledge and skills Application Instructions Applicants should note the four steps carefully as the application procedures have changed from prior years. 1. Create and submit a one-page cover letter stating why the applicant is interested and demonstrates the qualifications for a Fellowship. 2. Enclose a current resume or curriculum vitae. 3. Enclose a letter of recommendation from your senior official. If the applicant is the Chief, the letter should be written by the jurisdictional head (e.g., Mayor or City Manager). Otherwise, the recommendation should be from the Fire Chief. 4. In an attachment, respond carefully and completely to three following essay questions in 250 words or less (for each question). The essay questions are a key component in the selection process. At your current position, what are your specific duties and responsibilities? Describe the functions or services provided by your organization. If you are an elected official, please describe your committee assignments or size of jurisdiction. Please describe the most significant strategic challenges in your work. Please describe your immediate and long-term career goals. How will attending this program help you to achieve them? Application packages postmarked after February 21, 2012, will not be considered. Application packages (traceable mail with receipt is recommended) should be directed to the following address: Harvard Fellowship Program International Association of Fire Chiefs c/o Ms. Cynthia Cox 4025 Fair Ridge Drive - Suite 300 Fairfax, Virginia 22033-2868 Questions? For questions regarding application procedures only, please contact Ms. Mary Wingert at the U.S. Fire Administration at (301) 447-1085 or mary.wingert@fema.dhs.gov |
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NFA Fellowship Open - Harvard's Kennedy School for Senior Executives in State and Local Governmentposted Feb 10, 2012 2:25 PM by Dee Kinkade |