Michael Drake Health Philanthropy Fellowship Program

The Commonwealth Fund supported Michael Drake Health Philanthropy Fellowship Program provides promising undergraduate students with exposure, experience, and mentorship to explore careers in health philanthropy with a lens on advancing health equity. The Fellowship honors Dr. Michael Drake, President of the University of California System and former Chairman of the Commonwealth Fund Board of Directors. Dr. Drake has made a lasting, significant impact on health, health professions education, and health equity through his distinguished leadership in philanthropy, higher education, and medicine. 

The Commonwealth Fund operates the Fellowship in partnership with Health Career Connection (HCC), a national nonprofit that inspires and empowers the next generation of diverse health leaders and professionals. Fellows apply to the program through HCC and are selected for full-time, in-person, 10-week summer placements at the Commonwealth Fund and/or partner philanthropic organizations in New York City. 

Fellows will gain exposure to how philanthropic organizations work to improve health and advance health equity. They will also learn about career paths in health philanthropy and find mentors to help them advance towards their goals. Fellows will gain valuable hands-on experience working on projects and will enhance their professional development and networks through a comprehensive fellowship curriculum, including workshops and events. Fellows will learn and build valuable relationships through participation in Health Career Connection’s New York City and national summer cohorts and will become part of HCC’s 5,400-plus alumni network for support throughout their careers. 

Program Overview:

• Duration: The fellowship program will run for 10 weeks, from mid to late May, through early August 2025.
• Location: Fellows will be placed at the Commonwealth Fund or partner philanthropic organizations in New York City. 
• Experience: Participants will gain hands-on work experience, receive mentorship, and support projects in health philanthropy. Participants will also benefit from HCC’s comprehensive career and professional development programming.
• Funding and Support: Each fellow will receive an educational stipend of $6,000 and support to attend professional development events in New York City and nearby regions. Support for transportation within New York City will be provided. 
• Eligibility: Undergraduate juniors or seniors, who have a demonstrated interest in health and/or philanthropy and want to gain exposure and experience in health philanthropy are encouraged to apply. Must be available to be a full-time fellow, in person in New York City, on a hybrid basis (at least 2 to 3 days per week) between mid to late May and early August. 

How to Apply: Candidates can apply through the HCC website (www.healthcareers.org). Applications will open on 10/9/2024 and close on 12/11/2024.

Join us in honoring Dr. Drake’s legacy by applying to the Michael Drake Health Philanthropy Fellowship and take a significant step toward becoming a leader in health equity and philanthropy.