Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I serve as a volunteer trustee of Metro International, the non-profit group that coordinates and serves Fulbright Fellows and students working in our region. One outcome is that I am particularly sensitized to the value of the Fulbright program — both for individuals and for institutions.

The Fulbright program has a well-earned reputation for helping scholars lecture and conduct research in other countries, while developing relationships with colleagues and students around the world.

If you always thought that becoming a Fulbright scholar was complex and required a year away, you are operating on old information. Yes, the traditional scholars program typically lasts an academic year or one full semester. However, you should know that new programs offer short-term possibilities ranging from two to six weeks for faculty in selected disciplines.

Examples include the Fulbright Distinguished Chairs, the Fulbright Senior Specialists Program, the Fulbright New Century Scholars Program and the Fulbright German Studies Seminar. FDU has an especially close relationship with der Fulbright Kommission Deutschland and can be a conduit for other opportunities as well.

Overall, more than 800 awards are available for faculty and professionals in 150 countries. Scholars at all levels are eligible. Stipends generally cover travel and living expenses, as well as provide a research allowance. The deadline to apply is August 1.

I am so passionate about furthering our participation that I am prepared to add a modest stipend to any Fulbright grant earned by an FDU faculty member.

The University is hosting a special information session about opportunities in the Fulbright Scholars Programs this Friday in Dickinson Hall on the Metropolitan Campus. I encourage you to attend and learn more about possible ways to further distinguish your academic career. There is something special about being a Fulbright Scholar.

Friday’s information session will be held at Dickinson Hall, Room 2151/2155, from 11 a.m. to noon. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Diana Cvitan, director, Office of Global Learning, at dcvitan@fdu.edu or ext. 7161.

If you cannot attend the session but wish to learn more about applying for a grant, please contact Diana.

Thank you,

Michael Adams