The Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky (CEDIK) at the University of Kentucky is pleased to administer a new two-year Fellowship program for students from Appalachia that are enrolled in graduate education in a health field. The fellowships are awarded for two years, for a total of $20,000 ($10,000 will be awarded in the fall of each academic year). Applicants must have a permanent address in Appalachia^ and demonstrate clear intention to return to Appalachia to pursue a health career.

Those awarded a fellowship will be expected to virtually attend quarterly mentoring sessions with CEDIK staff. Awardees will also be expected to provide a short written reflection at the end of each fellowship year.

The fellowships are funded by a generous gift from The New York Community Trust.


To be considered for the fellowship, the following materials need to be postmarked by March 17th, 2023 to the address below:

1. This application form.

2. Evidence of acceptance to an accredited institution in a full-time post-graduate program of study in one of the following health care fields: medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing.

3. College transcripts (both current and completed programs) AND professional exam scores.

4. Three letters of recommendation. (Two need to be from post-secondary faculty mentors, and One from a person who can speak to your professional pursuits)

5. A current resume that includes your contact information, education, paid and unpaid work/internship experience, volunteer experience, and other associations/honors/extracurriculars.

6. A personal statement (not more than 3 pages) which outlines your reasons for going in to the health profession you are studying.

7. A separate statement (not more than 2 pages) which outlines your commitment to practicing in Appalachia upon completion of your professional studies.


CEDIK Appalachian Health Graduate Fellowship Committee
c/o Sarah Bowker
419 C.E. Barnhart Building
Lexington, KY 40546‐0276

    
The fellowship committee will consider all complete, on-time application packets and send out award notices around May 15th, 2023*. It is anticipated that 7 fellowships will be awarded.

^For the purposes of this application, we are using the Appalachian Regional Commission's definition of Appalachia, which can be found here.

*Note: No calls or emails, please. All applicants will be informed by email once fellowships have been successfully awarded.