California State University, San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus has launched the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Fellows Program, becoming the only chapter in California and one of just four in the country. The program is designed to promote civic engagement, ethical leadership, and public service among selected students.
According to Edna Martinez, associate vice president and administrator in charge of PDC, “The establishment of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Fellows Program at the Palm Desert Campus represents a significant milestone for our university and for the region we serve. This program will provide our students with exceptional opportunities to engage in meaningful leadership training and civic initiatives while connecting them to a national network of distinguished Ford Fellows.”
Students will be chosen through a multi-stage selection process that seeks individuals who demonstrate civic responsibility and leadership potential. Kevin Grisham, professor of global studies and faculty advisor for the program at PDC, stated, “This is a historic moment for the Palm Desert Campus and for the entire CSU system. Becoming the only California chapter of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Fellows Program underscores our commitment to preparing the next generation of ethical leaders and engaged citizens.”
The initiative is part of the Gerald R. Ford Leadership Forum, which was founded in 2022 by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation. Other chapters are located at the University of Michigan, Hope College (Michigan), and Middle Tennessee State University.
Jeff Polet, director of the Ford Leadership Forum, said: “Gerald R. Ford had two places he called home: Grand Rapids, MI and Rancho Mirage, CA. When we created the Ford Leadership Forum our intention was to honor his legacy by serving the people who shared his homes with him. We are thrilled to partner with the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus to bring Ford’s virtues of service, integrity and civility to a new generation.”
The program offers workshops on leadership training, public service projects in Coachella Valley, civil dialogue training, mentorship from community leaders, seminars on President Ford’s legacy, and experiences with diverse communities.
The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus continues its focus on academic excellence and community engagement by offering undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to regional needs.
More information about this initiative can be found on the official campus website.
