Fulbright New Zealand celebrates 84 new grantees of its prestigious awards this year, by honouring them tonight at a special ceremony in Wellington.
The Fulbright New Zealand programme promotes mutual understanding between New Zealand and the United States through educational and cultural exchange.
By giving grantees opportunities to study, research, teach or present their work in top institutions, the awards open doors for tomorrow’s leaders and thinkers.
Fulbright New Zealand Executive Director Penelope Borland says that in this globalised and rapidly changing world, the Fulbright New Zealand programme is especially relevant.
“New Zealand must ensure that its future leaders receive the best possible international education, as well as the broadest possible exposure to international thinking and trends. One of the aims of the Fulbright programme is to develop the thought leaders of tomorrow,” Ms Borland says.
“These grantees are now part of the Fulbright family of more than 3,000 esteemed alumni. As ‘Fulbrighters’ they join a global network of academic, professional and personal excellence.”
More than 8,000 people worldwide are participating in Fulbright exchanges this year, in more than 160 countries.
The 2015 Fulbright New Zealand Awards Ceremony and Alumni Reception at Parliament Buildings will be hosted by the Hon Chris Finlayson, US Ambassador Mark Gilbert and Fulbright New Zealand Chairperson Helen Anderson.
Among the 84 New Zealand and US grantees of Fulbright New Zealand awards this year are academics, artists and professionals who are the best and brightest in their fields.
The awards are:
For more information, please see the 2015 Grantees Booklet.