The Presidential Fellows Program was launched in 2024 with the goal of fostering leadership growth among faculty and librarians by providing a unique professional development opportunity. The fellows represent President Hodge and the President’s Office and contribute to university- and community-wide initiatives that further Fitchburg State’s mission, vision and core values. The program is overseen by Special Advisor to the President Dr. Laura Garofoli.
Opportunity
Presidential Fellows will engage regularly with the President’s Office and senior university leadership on issues relevant to Fitchburg State and the broader landscape of higher education. The fellowship is intended to recognize and amplify the meaningful work faculty and librarians are already doing across the university.
Rather than requiring a large independent project, fellows are encouraged to build upon existing areas of scholarship, teaching, service, or campus engagement. Through conversations within their cohort, and collaboration with university leadership, fellows may choose to further develop or highlight work that contributes to the continued growth and visibility of Fitchburg State.
Throughout the academic year, fellows will also have opportunities to hear from and better connect with cabinet-level leaders through program meetings, discussions, and informal gatherings focused on university priorities and emerging issues in higher education.
Fellows may additionally serve as an important faculty and librarian perspective in conversations with leadership and may represent the President’s Office at selected campus or community events.
2026-27 Presidential Fellows
