Fellowship aims to help military-connected women undergrads

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Applications will soon be accepted for the Focus Forward Fellowship, a program designed by the Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University to build skills, leadership and a sense of community among female student veterans and military-connected women.

This is the second year of the fellowship, which is open to rising sophomores and juniors. Two fellowship programs will be offered and both begin with a four-day residency program, followed by engagement online during the 2017–2018 academic year. Colorado State University is sponsoring a June 7 cohort, which is open to military-connected women at Colorado schools. Got Your 6 is a sponsor of a July 26 cohort held in Indianapolis, which is open to military-connected women from schools across the nation.

“We are extremely grateful for Colorado State and Got Your 6 for partnering with us in our efforts to help women student veterans achieve their full potential as they pursue academic and career success,” said Lauren Runco, MFRI’s director of education and employment. “We encourage all eligible women to apply for what has been called a life-changing experience.”

The cost of travel, food, lodging, activities and materials are paid for by MFRI and other sponsoring institutions. Applications will open Feb. 20 and close April 2. Those interested should register for email alerts about the application process, and follow the social media conversation by using the hashtag #FWDFellows. For more information, email Lauren Runco at lrunco@purdue.edu. 

About the Military Family Research Institute (MFRI): The Military Family Research Institute (MFRI) conducts research on issues that affect military and veteran families and works to shape policies, programs and practices that improve their well-being. Founded in 2000, MFRI envisions a diverse support community that understands the most pressing needs of military and veteran families and collaborates to create meaningful solutions for them. This nationally-recognized organization is located within Purdue University’s College of Health and Human Sciences in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. 

Contact: Linda Hughes-Kirchubel, Digital Content & Special Projects, Military Family Research Institute, 765-494-2962, kirchubels@yahoo.com