By Sarah Daniels, Managing Editor
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Eisenhower Institute announced four programs open to accepting applications. Students are encouraged to apply from any major until November 2. In these programs, students have the chance to “participate in small group conversations with experts and peers, apply and share knowledge through project-based work, and engage in travel and experiential learning.” No prior experience with the Eisenhower Institute is necessary to apply.
The Application Center has more information for students interested, with further information on info sessions, past programs, and instructors.
Below are brief descriptions of the programs offered.
May 10-15 Study Trip
- Inside Civil Rights: Travel to Memphis, Tennessee, and Little Rock, Arkansas, for a five-day exploration of the Civil Rights Movement, its connection to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and its continued relevance to contemporary conversations about racial justice. This year’s program focuses on how Black churches, religious organizations, and other community spaces served as places of refuge, organizing, leadership, and resistance. All class years and majors are encouraged to apply.
Spring 2027
- Emerging Threats in National Security: Examine the evolving landscape of U.S. national security in this semester-long program. Investigate non-traditional threats such as space competition, climate displacement, identity in the military, and transnational cartels. Through case studies, debates, and discussions with national security practitioners, you’ll analyze the legality, ethics, and strategies behind current policies. All class years and majors are encouraged to apply.
- Inside Washington: Experience politics up close through this semester-long program in Washington, D.C. Spend the semester learning about the inner workings of Capitol Hill as the 120th Congress begins its work and establishes the priorities that will shape the next two years in Washington. Students will engage with guest speakers and recent alumni who work across various branches of government. They will also take part in a networking reception at the end of the program. All class years and majors are encouraged to apply.
Summer 2027
- Washington Summer Fellowship: Spend 10 weeks living and working in Washington, D.C., combining a full-time internship with opportunities to learn from the people and institutions shaping public policy and public service. Fellows receive individualized guidance throughout the internship search and placement process and take part in weekly expert roundtables, professional development workshops, a Capitol Hill Day, and a Community Day to build professional skills and a deeper understanding of life and work in the nation’s capital. The fellowship is open to current Gettysburg College sophomores, juniors, and seniors who will return to Gettysburg for the Fall 2027 semester.
