WASHINGTON, September 1, 2003 - The White House today announced that the President's Commission on White House Fellowships now is accepting applications for the 2004 - 2005 Class of Fellows. Applications are available at /fellows/about/apply.html. Completed applications must be postmarked by February 1, 2004 and sent to:

White House Fellows Program
c/o O.P.M. - Sheila Coates
1900 E Street, NW, Room B431
Washington, D.C. 20415
Phone for express mail: 202-606-1818

Applicants are encouraged to check the program web site prior to mailing the application for any potential changes to the mailing instructions.

Founded in 1964, the White House Fellows Program is America's most prestigious program for leadership and public service. White House Fellowships offer exceptional young men and women first-hand experience working at the highest levels of the Federal government. White House Fellows typically spend a year working as full-time, paid special assistants to senior White House Staff, the Vice President, Cabinet Secretaries and other top-ranking government officials. Fellows also participate in an education program consisting of roundtable discussions with renowned leaders from the private and public sectors, and trips to study U.S. policy in action both domestically and internationally. In return for the privilege of participating in the Fellowship year, Fellows are expected to repay the privilege by contributing to the Nation as future leaders.

Selection as a White House Fellow is highly competitive and based on a record of remarkable professional achievement early in one's career, evidence of leadership potential, a proven commitment to public service, and the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute successfully at the highest levels of the Federal government. Fellowships are awarded strictly on a non-partisan basis.

The program has fostered a legacy of leadership, with nearly 600 alumni who are respected leaders. Alumni include Secretary of State Colin Powell, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, former CNN President Tom Johnson, and American Red Cross President Marsha Evans. More information about the program is available at www.whitehouse.gov/fellows.

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