The ICC Geller International Fellowship is a prestigious program offered by the Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC). It is designed to empower young students and emerging leaders in their advocacy for Israel. This fellowship provides participants with the skills, resources, and networks necessary to make a lasting impact on college campuses and beyond, strengthening the global conversation around Israel and Jewish identity.
Overview of the Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC)
The Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC) is a nonprofit organization that works to support and empower Jewish students advocating for Israel on college campuses across North America. The organization is committed to building strong, informed, and positive narratives about Israel, ensuring that Jewish students have the resources and support they need to stand up for Israel in the face of misinformation and bias. Through partnerships with various campus groups, the ICC fosters a vibrant community of student leaders working to bridge divides and educate others about Israel’s history, achievements, and challenges.
What is the ICC Geller International Fellowship?
Named in honor of a key donor and visionary, the ICC Geller International Fellowship is a selective program that provides outstanding student leaders with the opportunity to engage in professional development, advocacy training, and hands-on experience in Israeli advocacy. Fellows are selected based on their demonstrated commitment to Israel and Jewish causes and their potential to lead efforts in fostering a positive Israel presence on college campuses.
Through the fellowship, participants gain access to a range of tools and resources that will help them build effective campaigns, develop strategic relationships, and advocate for Israel in an informed and compelling way. Fellows also have the opportunity to engage with influential thought leaders, policy experts, and seasoned activists who offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Israeli diplomacy, public relations, and advocacy.
Goals and Impact of the Fellowship
The ultimate goal of the ICC Geller International Fellowship is to shape future leaders who can bring positive, authentic narratives about Israel to the forefront of campus discussions. The program cultivates a generation of advocates by providing these fellows with mentorship and training. This approach equips them to navigate the complexities of Israeli politics and culture and to tackle the challenges of campus activism, media relations, and social advocacy effectively.
As part of the fellowship, participants engage in a variety of hands-on projects, including organizing campus events, speaking engagements, and campaigns designed to promote dialogue and understanding around Israel’s role in the global community. These projects allow fellows to translate their learning into meaningful action, helping them build a network of peers and allies committed to supporting Israel.
Who Can Apply?
The ICC Geller International Fellowship is open to undergraduate and graduate students with a strong interest in Israeli advocacy, Jewish identity, and leadership. Applicants are typically active in their campus communities, with a demonstrated track record of leadership in student organizations, cultural events, or social causes. The fellowship seeks individuals who actively promote a positive image of Israel and engage in meaningful dialogue with diverse communities on campus.
The fellowship welcomes students of all backgrounds but often prioritizes individuals who are passionate about Israel, possess a strong understanding of its history, and are eager to develop practical skills in advocacy, public speaking, and community organizing.
What Do Fellows Gain?
The fellowship provides students with several key benefits:
- Mentorship – Experienced mentors guide fellows through the nuances of Israeli advocacy, public diplomacy, and leadership.
- Professional Development – Participants attend training workshops and seminars led by experts in international relations, media, and political strategy. These sessions cover topics such as crafting compelling narratives, handling criticism, and leading effective campaigns.
- Networking Opportunities – Fellows gain access to a broad network of influential professionals, organizations, and policymakers involved in Israeli advocacy. This gives them a unique chance to build relationships that will help further their careers in activism, law, politics, or public relations.
- Hands-On Experience – Fellows have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned through real-world projects. These include planning and executing events on their campuses, collaborating with other Israeli advocacy organizations, and speaking to diverse audiences about Israel.
- Global Perspective – The fellowship also provides opportunities for international travel, including visits to Israel and meetings with Israeli officials and experts. This exposure helps fellows gain a deeper understanding of Israel’s complexities. It offers them a firsthand look at the country’s achievements, challenges, and ongoing efforts to build peace in the region.
The Impact of the Fellowship
The ICC Geller International Fellowship has had a profound impact on the students who have participated in it. Fellows emerge from the program equipped with a diverse set of skills—ranging from effective communication to leadership and strategic thinking—that make them valuable advocates for Israel on their campuses and in their future careers.
Many fellowship alums have gone on to work in influential positions in public relations, diplomacy, law, and international relations, where they continue to advocate for Israel and Jewish causes. Some have also pursued careers in the nonprofit sector, working with organizations that support Israel and fight antisemitism globally.
Moreover, the fellowship’s emphasis on building a broad network of like-minded advocates ensures that its impact is far-reaching. Fellows can maintain close ties with one another long after the program ends, forming a strong and supportive community of Israel advocates worldwide.
The ICC Geller International Fellowship stands as a vital initiative for shaping the next generation of leaders in Israeli advocacy. By offering rigorous training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, the fellowship equips students with the tools they need to defend and promote Israel on college campuses and beyond. As the world continues to grapple with issues related to Israel and the Middle East, the work of these young leaders is more critical than ever. The fellows, supported by the ICC, are actively ensuring that future generations hear and understand Israel’s story.
For any student with a passion for Israel and Jewish identity, the ICC Geller International Fellowship represents a powerful opportunity to join a global movement for positive change.