This program is a key component of Rotary’s broader efforts to promote peace around the world. In partnership with top universities, Rotary offers master's degrees and professional development certificates in fields related to peace and development. The Rotary Foundation awards up to 130 fully funded fellowships annually to dedicated leaders from around the globe, allowing them to study at one of Rotary’s peace centers.
In CNY Rotary, a Peace Subcommittee has been established to oversee the promotion, recruitment, and engagement of the Rotary Peace Fellowship. The committee’s members actively support the recruitment of qualified candidates and provide essential information about the application process. The program offers two main tracks:
- A 15-24 month Master’s degree program, and
- A one-year Professional Development Certificate program, designed for experienced peace and development professionals to gain practical skills to advance peace within their communities and regions.
The application for the 2026-2027 fellowship cycle will be available online in February 2025. Rotary is seeking leaders with a demonstrated commitment to peace and social impact. Detailed application information for both programs can be found here: Rotary Peace Fellowship Application.
While Rotary members and their families are not eligible to apply, they are encouraged to refer potential candidates. Clubs and districts play a critical role in shaping the next generation of peace leaders, not only by recruiting and recommending fellows but also by keeping them engaged throughout their fellowship experience and beyond.
Did you know that in the past 23 years, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,700 fellows who now work in over 140 countries? Many of these fellows serve as leaders in governments, NGOs, educational and research institutions, peacekeeping agencies, law enforcement, and international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank.
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is specifically designed for professionals with significant work experience in peace and development. These fellows are deeply committed to community service, international collaboration, and the pursuit of peace. If you know of a potential candidate, you can refer them through the Rotary referral form to ensure they receive additional information.
For Rotarians, peace is not just an abstract concept—it is a dynamic, living expression of human development. Peacebuilding is a cornerstone of Rotary’s mission as a humanitarian service organization and is one of Rotary's key areas of focus. By working together, Rotary members can create lasting change on a global scale. For those who joined Rotary to make a difference, the Rotary Peace Fellowship offers another opportunity to contribute to this vital mission.
For more info, contact Nancy Potter, Elise Hereth or Lili Dobert.