About the Fellows
The Aspen Ideas Fellows Program is an initiative that brings nearly 300 forward-thinking young leaders to the Aspen Ideas Festival and Aspen Ideas: Health each June. These individuals are hand-selected for their exceptional achievements, groundbreaking work and ability to turn ideas into action.
Aspen Ideas Fellows are professionals from myriad fields, such as nonprofit leaders, artists, scientists, educators, journalists, healthcare professionals, private sector innovators, and many more. They join us from all over the United States and dozens of countries around the globe. These rising stars bring forward innovative solutions to the complex problems discussed on our stages and join a vast network of past Fellows whose big ideas are making the world a better place. Their on-the-ground experiences from communities around the world provide valuable insights that enrich on- and off-stage conversations.
The Fellows Program provides full funding for these action-oriented leaders to attend Aspen Ideas and network with their cohort of Fellows as well as attendees and speakers. It’s more than an opportunity for dialogue — it's a platform for action, connecting visionary young leaders with the tools, ideas and partnerships necessary to create lasting change. Through this program, we hope to help cultivate the next generation of global innovators who are making a significant, positive impact on the world.
Big IdeaAspen has been nothing short of one of the best experiences I've had in my professional career and life. There is no better opportunity to build interpersonal skills, discuss various topics in such intellectual depth, and enjoy the overall community and landscape like at the Aspen Ideas Festival.Anthony Devon; Founder, Bedrock Cinema
Big IdeaMy days are incredibly busy juggling two jobs, caregiving, and parenting two children. Finding time to explore outside interests is a rarity, which is why being able to participate as a Fellow was such a rewarding experience. I was challenged to consider diverse perspectives, inspired by the possibilities of the future, and energized by the opportunity to network with professionals from various industries.Monica Jew-Gonzalez; Workday Reporting Business Analyst, Kellogg Brown and Root
How Are Fellows Chosen?
Fellows are nominated by senior members of the Aspen Institute’s staff, Aspen Ideas Festival and Health advisors, previous Fellows and many others within the Aspen Institute’s broad network.
We seek talented individuals whose professional and extracurricular interests align with our programming as well as the mission of the Aspen Institute. We look for young leaders under 40 years old; diversity across gender, ethnicity, industry, political affiliation, and beyond; those who would otherwise not be able to attend; and relevance to Festival and Health programming.
How Can I Support the Fellows?
The Fellows Program is made possible by our underwriters and a group whose purchase of special Patron Passes directly funds this important program. We are proud to host these distinguished leaders and grateful to the patrons and underwriters for their crucial support. Learn more about becoming a Patron.