Gerald R. Ford

AEI has established a new fellowship program in honor of former president Gerald R. Ford on the occasion of his ninetieth birthday, July 14, 2003. President Ford has been distinguished fellow of the Institute since 1977, and he and his wife, Betty, have hosted the annual AEI World Forum since 1982. In addition to President Ford's close association with AEI, several members of his administration became AEI resident fellows and often went on to further positions in public service--including Richard Cheney, Antonin Scalia, John Snow, Robert Goldwin, Paul MacAvoy, and Lawrence Silberman.

The Ford Fellowship Program will sponsor Washington fellowships for graduate students working on issues of American politics and political institutions. It will continue President Ford's strong interest, which he has pursued throughout his career, in encouraging young people to study, understand, and take an active role in politics and government service. The program has been established by a group of the former president's friends and associates, including senior officials of his administration and regular participants at the annual World Forum.