All newly selected Truman Scholars are welcomed into the Truman community at William Jewell College in Missouri.
Scholars participate in seminars and workshops with distinguished Truman Scholars and other public service leaders, a policy analysis project, a graduate school and career fair, and community service efforts.
The week culminates in a special celebration and awards ceremony at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum.

Immediately after college graduation, Scholars can participate in a nine-week Summer Institute in Washington, D.C.
The Foundation arranges internships with government agencies and nonprofit organizations, hosts seminars and workshops, meetings with Washington policymakers, and opportunities for community building among public service leaders.
Housing and living stipends are provided to all Scholars so that all Scholars can participate, regardless of financial background.

After Summer Institute, Scholars may elect to remain in Washington, D.C. for a full year via the Truman-Albright Fellows Program. Scholars are placed in public service jobs – most with the federal government – while participating in a graduate-level public policy seminar. Past Truman-Albright positions include opportunities at the U.S. Department of State, Department of Health and Human Services, and Department of Transportation.
Friends of the Truman Foundation thanks Secretary Madeleine Albright and the MAAK Foundation for their generous support of the Truman-Albright Fellowship.

In 2025, the Truman Foundation was forced to vacate its 50-year home at the historic Jackson Place Offices. Yet, we all know that the forever home of this community is in the ~3,600 Truman Scholars carrying on the legacy of leadership and service across business, government, and philanthropy!
This is why Friends of Truman moved quickly to secure a 3-year lease and cover the new overhead needs of the Foundation through 2028. Join us in keeping the lights on for the next generation of Truman Scholars!
Support the fund HERE

Inaugurated in 2013, the Democracy Fellows program is for Truman Scholars interested in pursuing electoral politics. Sessions are led by senior Truman Scholars with experience in electoral politics.
Subjects discussed include the motivations for serving, honoring one’s personal values and professional values, working with party leaders, cultivating donors and raising money, navigating election law, building a campaign apparatus, attracting allies and building coalitions, and balancing personal life with public office.

Inaugurated in 2014, the Governance Fellows Program is for Truman Scholars interested in working at a senior level in the federal executive branch.
Some of the subjects to be discussed include motivations for serving, honoring one’s personal and professional values, paths to political appointment, the Senior Executive Service, navigating the federal personnel system, moving from campaigns to employment, and shifting roles within or across agencies.

Programs We Support