 Investing in SAIS and Its Students The world has changed since Paul Nitze and Christian Herter sat at a breakfast table in Georgetown and sketched out plans for a school that would prepare a new generation of leaders for the postwar world. But today all nations still need what SAIS has to offer: public servants and committed professionals who understand international politics and economics. They need big thinkers and innovative problem solvers—leaders with the economic, cultural and global expertise to operate across national boundaries and in complex international settings. Now, with its new Leaders for the Future initiative, SAIS has set a bold goal: to triple the amount of funds raised for student financial aid to $7.5 million over the next two years. By investing in SAIS and its students, you are helping ensure that tomorrow’s leaders have the knowledge and skills to create the concepts and policies to solve the critical issues facing our world. And, just as important, you are making it possible for exceptional young people to enrich all our lives by putting into practice their extraordinary education. Strategy for Success The need for the Leaders for the Future initiative is extremely urgent. Each year, SAIS welcomes a select class of top students in international studies from around the world. But at the same time, the school loses other equally talented applicants whose first choice for graduate studies is SAIS. Many cannot afford to attend because our financial aid packages do not compete with what some peer institutions offer. For those who study at SAIS, the majority graduate with considerable debt. With annual tuition at approximately $35,000, the average debt of graduates is more than $60,000—a burden that can severely limit life choices. Those who dream of a career in public service might opt to take a more lucrative job outside their desired career path in order to pay off student loans. Reflecting the rising costs of a first-class graduate education, 80 percent of students admitted to SAIS ask for financial assistance—and in today’s uncertain economy, that number will no doubt grow. SAIS is able to provide fellowships to only 35 percent of first-year students and 60 percent of students in their second year. But today’s average fellowship is only $7,000 annually. That is less than 15 percent of the typical student budget for one year of study in Washington, D.C., or Bologna, Italy. We created the Leaders for the Future initiative so that a SAIS education can remain within reach for those exceptional students who are up to the challenge and can realize its promise. This initiative will also reinforce the strength and integrity of the SAIS degree by enhancing the school’s ability to attract the world’s best talent. These are young people on the brink of making their mark on the international stage and playing key roles in solving our most critical global problems. If you believe a SAIS education should be an option for the outstanding students who seek it, we invite you to join us in this important effort. Your investment will transform their lives—and the institutions and individuals they ultimately serve. Please view the links below for additional information.
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