Young Stewards
Former Morrison Institute Director Rob Melnick (left) and Associate Director Nancy Welch (far right) talk with 2007-08 Young Steward awardees Dawson Rauch and Allison Pilar Wiley.
Morrison Institute is committed to nurturing the next generation of stewards of public policy through outreach, events, essays and scholarships.
The Rob Melnick Young Stewards for Public Policy Scholarship program allows high school seniors to express their creative ideas about and solutions to Arizona’s greatest challenges.
The prestigious program, named after the former longtime director of Morrison Institute, promotes “stewardship”—public leadership committed to doing what is best for Arizona regardless of political philosophy or personal gain.
Young Steward awards are based on an essay about a public issue of critical importance. Applicants are invited to address a community issue or problem they are passionate about and offer solutions on that issue to Arizona leaders. Essays must include specific recommendations for policymakers on how the issue should be addressed.
For past awardees and their essays, click on links below:
AWARDS:
First Place: $1,500 scholarship to ASU • Second Place: $1,000 scholarship to ASU • Honorable Mention may be designated for other outstanding essays.
TO APPLY:
Submit an essay about a public issue of critical importance to Arizona (two-pages maximum; typed, double-spaced, 12-point type) accompanied by a Young Steward Application Form. The essay should analyze a specific public issue and include specific recommendation(s) to policymakers on how that issue should be addressed. One essay per applicant. All contact information must be included; incomplete applications may be disqualified.
DEADLINE:
Applications must be postmarked by March 31, 2010.
SPECIAL CRITERIA:
Awards will not be based on financial need or the academic achievement of the applicant. However, awards will only be given to students who attend ASU. Should an award winner decide not to attend ASU, the award would be forfeited.
SELECTION PROCESS:
Essays will be reviewed and awards determined by representatives from ASU, The Arizona Republic and Arizona’s public policy leadership. Essays will be judged on the clarity of analysis and quality of policy recommendation(s). Award-winning essays will be published by The Arizona Republic and other newspapers in addition to the scholarship award. The selection committee or Morrison Institute reserves the right not to make an award if no essays are acceptable.
PROGRAM BACKGROUND:
Elaine and Richard Morrison established this unique program to commemorate Morrison Institute’s 20+ years of policy research. Morrison Institute’s Board of Advisors is committed to the development of this special program.
