Nominations Open for IRF Fellowship Program – Class of 2014

For Immediate Release: April 30, 2012

(Alexandria, Va.) – The International Road Educational Foundation (IREF) is now accepting nominations for the IRF Fellowship Program – Class of 2014.

The Fellowship Program provides a one-time graduate level scholarship to young professionals from developing countries who have strong academic backgrounds, professional qualifications and leadership potential, and who are committed to return to their home countries after their graduate education is complete. Students selected for the Class of 2014 will also participate in the IRF’s Road Scholar Program held in Washington, D.C. during the students’ second semester of studies (January 2014).

Since 1949, the IREF, the private foundation established to administer the Fellowship Program and Future Fund, has awarded more than 1,275 grants to individuals in 116 countries on six continents. Many Fellows have become high-level government officials and leaders in the private sector. Individual profiles of the Class of 2012, along with a roster of all IRF Fellow alumni, are featured in the 2012 IRF Fellows Yearbook.

This Program provides IRF members a unique opportunity to meet and develop relationships with the next generation of transportation industry leaders”, said Patrick Sankey, President & CEO of IREF. “While there are many qualified students, we are seeking candidates who possess a strong passion to make a difference in their country”.

IRF encourages all of its Members in good standing, as well as IRF Fellow alumni, to submit nominations for the Class of 2014. IRF member organizations and Fellow alumni are encouraged, when possible, to provide a primary candidate and an alternate candidate.

Students not nominated by an IRF member or past IRF Fellow may apply for a grant; however, greater consideration will be given to those who are nominated by an IRF member or former Fellow. Students awarded grants, ranging in amount from US$2,500 to USD$15,000, will commence studies in the United States in the fall semester of 2013.

Qualifications:

In general, candidates are expected to meet these criteria; however, there are circumstances where some flexibility is possible. • Demonstrated potential as next-generation leaders in the highway industry, financing, administration, planning, design, construction, operations, and maintenance.
• Three to fifteen years of progressive work experience in transportation.

• A Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent) in a transportation-related discipline.
• The ability to actively engage in study and/or research in English.
• A commitment to full-time study for a minimum of nine months.
• The ability to travel to and within the United States.
• Strong endorsements from cognizant national Road Associations (or similar agencies), IRF Members, and/or past IRF Fellow.
Nomination Process:

• Submit the name of the nominee, his or her contact information, home country, your organization name via email to Kathy Mejasich or fax to +1 703 535 1007. Nominations must be received by July 13, 2012.
• Nominee Requirements: Nominees must complete an IRF Fellowship Application. Applications and related documentation must be submitted by September 28, 2012.

Founded in 1948, the International Road Federation (IRF) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization with members from both the public and private sectors in 90 countries worldwide. IRF promotes the development and maintenance of better, safer roads and road networks throughout the world, using technological solutions and management practices that provide maximum economic and social returns from road investment.