New USGIF Scholarships

The United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation’s 2023–2024 scholarship program is open for applications, including three new multi-year scholarships offered by AWS, Leidos, and GDIT.

“Growing the next generation of GEOINT professionals is at the heart of what we do at USGIF,” said Ronda Schrenk, USGIF CEO. “Since its inception, USGIF’s scholarship program has made a deep and meaningful impact on the lives of GEOINT students. We are grateful for the support of member organizations like AWS, Leidos, and GDIT for their support in growing this amazing, essential, and impactful community.”

The AWS Scholarship for Inclusive Leadership in GEOINT is a $10,000 annual scholarship that will be awarded to one undergraduate, graduate, or Ph.D. student studying in a GEOINT-related field who embodies AWS’ commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

“At Amazon, we believe the future of tech is diverse, inclusive, and accessible across every color, gender, belief, origin, ability, and community,” said David Appel, Vice President of National Security at Amazon Web Services (AWS). “This new scholarship aligns with AWS’ continued investment in equity programs for people looking to educate themselves and build tech skills, with a focus on serving those from underrepresented and underserved communities. We are excited to continue our support for USGIF through this effort and the work they do on behalf of the broader geospatial community.”

The Leidos Scholarship for AI/ML Advancement is a $10,000 annual award for one graduate or Ph.D. student who uses artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, or machine learning for geospatial research.

“We’re growing our internship talent base as part of our commitment to positive impacts and outcomes for customers, communities, and other stakeholders. We’re excited to support the pursuit of advancements in geospatial research – it’s an integral part of how the IC turns data into actionable intelligence,” said Titus Jeffries, Vice President, Spatial Solutions, Leidos Intelligence Group. “At Leidos, we apply advanced analytics, AI and ML to design and deliver solutions that help IC customers achieve their missions, and our trusted workforce is what drives that development. We’re home to an unmatched team of experts, and we look forward to watching and welcoming the next generation of GEOINT professionals, who will be vital to how we protect what’s most important.”

GDIT has also pledged a scholarship with a uniquely important focus. The GDIT Horizons Scholarship is a $10,000 annual award for a graduating high school senior who intends to study a STEM or geospatial-related field. First-generation students, students from diverse backgrounds, and students attending community college are particularly encouraged to apply.

“I’m thrilled that GDIT is able to invest in supporting the future of our STEM workforce through the GDIT Horizons Scholarship with USGIF,” said Deb Davis, Intelligence Sector Vice President and General Manager, GDIT. “It’s critical that we provide opportunities to enable students who are eager to learn and will become the tech leaders of tomorrow.”

With the announcement of the AWS, Leidos, and GDIT scholarships, USGIF now offers eight recurring scholarships in addition to the general doctoral, graduate, undergraduate, and graduating high school senior scholarships. The USGIF scholarship program has awarded more than $1.6 million since its creation.

USGIF is accepting scholarship applications for the AWS Scholarship for Inclusive Leadership in GEOINT, Leidos Scholarship for AI/ML Advancement, GDIT Horizons Scholarship, and all other USGIF scholarships through May 31^st. Contact scholarships@usgif.org with questions.