(EVANSTON, Illinois, USA) – More than 750 university students from some 60 countries have been selected to study abroad during the 2008-09 academic year through a Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship. Designed to bridge cultures and encourage goodwill, the scholarships are one of Rotary’s leading efforts to promote world peace and understanding. 

Ambassadorial Scholarships provide students the opportunity to study in one of the almost 200 countries and geographical regions where Rotary clubs are active. While abroad, scholars speak to Rotary clubs and districts, schools, civic organizations, and other forums where they act as “ambassadors of goodwill” and participate in community service.

Nearly 800 recipients from 70 countries studied in more than 60 nations in 2007-08 at a cost of US$15 million. 

Top universities sending 2008-09 scholars abroad were:

• Northwestern University, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (11 scholars each)
• United States Naval Academy (10 scholars)
• University of Pennsylvania, University of Florida (6 scholars each)

Rotary’s Ambassadorial Scholarships program is the world’s largest privately-sponsored international scholarship program.  Focused on humanitarian service, personal diplomacy, and academic excellence, the university-level program has sponsored more than 38,000 Rotary Scholars since 1947. Alumni include Paul Volcker Jr, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, Philip Lader Former US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, David Mulford, US Ambassador to India, and Roger Ebert, popular Film Critic.

Learn more about Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarships.