Scout McKibben-Baier ‘27 has become the first Wesleyan University student to receive the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service. As one of 100 Voyager Scholars selected nationwide in 2025, Mckibben-Baier, an English major and minor in civic engagement, will be working with the Obama Foundation, with funding from Airbnb CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky, to support and develop her leadership skills, community building, and civic engagement. The scholarship is aimed at supporting undergraduate students in their junior and senior years, reducing access barriers to allow them to gain invaluable experience travelling to meet and work with a wide-range of mentors and leaders. 

Students who are passionate about civic engagement, and want to grow those skills and experiences into a tangible career should consider applying! Applications for next year are open through March 17. Students interested in applying to the Voyager Scholarship can learn more online about eligibility and details of the award, and should stay tuned for Office of Fellowships events this spring. Email fellowships@wesleyan.edu if you are a sophomore interested in being added to the mailing list.