Brandeis University's Hornstein Program offers full scholarships to recently laid-off federal workers
Scholarships aim to give public service professionals a path to a fulfilling career in Jewish nonprofit leadership
May 5, 2025
In response to the wave of recent federal layoffs, Brandeis University’s Hornstein Jewish Professional Leadership Program will offer a limited number of full-tuition scholarships to eligible former federal employees and contractors.
The initiative, which is available to candidates for the fall 2025 semester who wish to pursue a master’s degree within the Hornstein program, is designed to support talented professionals seeking to develop careers in Jewish nonprofit and communal sectors. Through this scholarship, applicants can choose to pair their Hornstein degree with a Master of Public Administration (MPP) or Master of Business Administration (MBA), pathways that provide them with the fundraising, strategy and human-resources skills they need to make successful career transitions into the Jewish communal sector.
“These scholarships reflect our deep respect for individuals who have dedicated their careers to the public good,” said Liora Norwich, director of the Hornstein Program. “We are proud to offer this opportunity to build new leadership pathways for those who wish to now serve the Jewish community.”
With an emphasis on practical leadership training and real-world experience, Hornstein students are equipped to address contemporary challenges facing the Jewish communal ecosystem. More than 750 students have graduated from the program since its inception in 1969, with alumni establishing leadership positions at Jewish organizations around the world — from federations to start-ups to day schools and camps.
“These scholarships reflect our deep respect for individuals who have dedicated their careers to the public good.”
Liora Norwich, Director
The Hornstein program is housed within the university’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. In addition to the in-residence dual degree track, Hornstein also offers two online options designed to complement the schedules of full-time working professionals: a Master’s Certificate and an MA in Jewish Professional Leadership.
Applications are currently open for Fall 2025. Candidates interested in the MA/MBA or MA/MPP program must apply by July 1 for scholarship consideration.
