International businessman and philanthropic leader Carlos Slim will fund full tuition scholarships for George Washington University graduate students studying engineering, business and international affairs. The Carlos Slim Foundation Scholars Program, a partnership between the Fundacion Carlos Slim and George Washington, will recruit five graduates from Mexican universities beginning this spring.
"The Carlos Slim Foundation Scholars Program embodies Mr. Slim's commitment to empowering Mexican youth through education," said GW President Steven Knapp. "It will offer these future leaders a unique opportunity to combine rigorous graduate studies with direct exposure to government and business in the heart of this nation’s capital.”
The Carlos Slim Foundation Scholars Program will provide students with practical experiences to help them understand the significance of leadership and communication in influencing public policy, including immigration, health care and poverty. The program also will connect students to international economic institutions and influential political and thought leaders while allowing hands-on learning through summer internships, travel opportunities and cultural enriching studies.
Each scholar will be paired with an academic adviser who will help guide their educational experience and a mentor to oversee their practical experience. Students also will gain intensive leadership training and participate in team-building activities.
Carlos Slim Foundation Scholars will be selected from graduate students who have applied for admission to a graduate program in the School of Business, the School of Engineering and Applied Science or the Elliott School of International Affairs. The recipients must be graduates of a Mexican university, and selection will be based on their undergraduate academic achievement and leadership experience.
Mr. Slim has made significant contributions to business and community development in Mexico and Latin America, and his extensive philanthropic work through his foundations has led to improvements and investments in education, health and the fine arts. Mr. Slim was awarded the George Washington University President’s Medal in 2009 and received an honorary doctorate degree in 2012.