Fellowship Information
Mock congressional hearing, 2005 training in DC
The program provides two separate week-long intensive training sessions to enhance the skills of the Leopold fellows. Media and policy specialists, leading researchers, and business leaders participate as trainers in "hands on" interactive sessions in which the researchers are taught methods to engage with and communicate to a variety of non-scientific audiences.
A range of experiential techniques, including role playing and small group interactive exercises, are used to help Fellows understand the perspective of diverse audiences (e.g., policy makers or journalists) and to develop specific, appropriate "messages" they want to clearly communicate to those stakeholders. The training is conducted in modules during the two separate weeks.
The first weeklong session focuses on leadership development and broad communications and outreach skills. Media representatives and communication specialists conduct "hands on" training, including mock interviews, writing for different audiences, and development of specific messages. The second session, focusing primarily on interaction with policy makers, industry and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), is held in Washington, D.C. The week includes modules on interacting with state and federal agencies, international environmental policy, and working with Congress. This week features a mock Congressional hearing where Fellows practice giving testimony concerning environmental legislation.
After completing the two training sessions, Fellows return to their home institutions where they are expected to engage in outreach activities and teach the skills they have learned to their students and colleagues.
Fellowship Support
The Leopold Leadership Fellowship enables 20 academic researchers to participate in the training sessions. As members of the Leopold Leadership Network, Fellows receive ongoing opportunities for peer networking, mentoring from trainers and past Fellows, and promotion as environmental experts. Please note that there is no direct financial award or stipend associated with this Fellowship.
The following expenses are covered by the Leopold Leadership Program for each Fellow:
- Roundtrip economy class transportation between the training sites and the Fellow's home city
- Incidental travel expenses
- Accommodations and meals at the training sites
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is the policy of the program that spouses, partners, family members, and friends do not accompany Fellows to the training sites or participate in any of the activities.