The Henry Luce Foundation is delighted to announce the completion of its 2023-2024 Luce Scholars selection.
After a one-year hiatus and a redesigned admissions process, the Luce Scholars Program saw a record number of applications: more than double than in any previous year, with 32 percent of applicants coming from institutions new to the Program. Applications went through a two-step review process in which candidates were assessed on their professional interests, leadership potential, commitment to social change, and personal integrity. Eighteen Scholars were selected from a pool of 34 finalists in a highly competitive interviewing process.
“We are thrilled with the results of this year’s competition and the excellence of the candidates. By opening our admissions process we were able to offer this opportunity to more individuals than ever before holding true to the aims and values of the program,” said Program Director for Leadership Aida Gureghian.
The Luce Scholars Program aims to provide young scholars who have great potential, but little previous exposure to Asia, with an immersive experience through which they can learn to “be comfortable being uncomfortable.” The cultural and linguistic challenges they encounter are at the heart of the Luce experience and help the Scholars grow personally and professionally. They also develop a sophisticated understanding of a dynamic region that is critical to America’s future and gain a new perspective of the world.
The newly selected 2023-2024 Luce Scholars come from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines. This newest cohort, our most diverse to date, includes 14 persons of color, several first- or second-generation immigrants, LGBTQ+ identified individuals, first-generation college graduates, and permanent residents of the United States.
“At a time when the value of the open movement of people, ideas, and information is being questioned, the Foundation remains committed to supporting cross-border scholarship and dialogue. We are honored to welcome this impressive cohort into the global community of Luce Scholars,” said Foundation President and CEO Mariko Silver.
The bios of the 2023-2024 Luce Scholars can be found below.
About the Luce Scholars Program
The Luce Scholars Program is a nationally competitive fellowship program launched by the Henry Luce Foundation to enhance the understanding of Asia among potential leaders in American society. The program provides stipends, language training, and individualized professional placement in Asia for 15-18 Luce Scholars each year, and welcomes applications from college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals in a variety of fields who have had limited exposure to Asia.