Thanks to generous philanthropic support, the Rhodes Trust has today announced a major strategic and geographic expansion, including the establishment of a new knowledge-sharing institute, the creation of global fellowship initiatives, and the growth of its existing Rhodes scholarship programme.
Supporting dynamic leaders globally with the launch of the Atlantic Institute
The Atlantic Philanthropies - an international, limited-life foundation - has given £75million towards the establishment of a new knowledge-sharing institute at Rhodes House in Oxford.
The Atlantic Institute will connect Atlantic’s fellowship initiatives around the world, bringing together scholars from different generations, countries, sectors and backgrounds in order to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. As well as connecting Atlantic Fellows globally, the grant will also enable the institute to provide support to Fellows and alumni throughout their careers.
'The Rhodes Trust is delighted to be announcing the launch of the Atlantic Institute,' commented Sir John Hood, Chairman of the Rhodes Trust. 'This is a significant development in the Trust's 113 year history and allows us to advance our goal of promoting collaboration among global leaders.'
This is a significant development in the Trust's 113 year history and allows us to advance our goal of promoting collaboration among global leaders.
Founded at Oxford University in 1903, the Rhodes Trust is the oldest and one of the most prestigious international scholarship programmes in the world. With this gift, the Trust will extend the capacity of Rhodes House through the addition of a below ground presentation, arts and theatre space.
The funding from The Atlantic Philanthropies will also be used to reinforce the core Rhodes Scholarships, as well as create a new award, the Rhodes Fellowships, to support mid-career individuals with breakthrough projects.
Geographic Expansion for the Rhodes Scholars
In addition to their partnership with The Atlantic Philanthropies, the Rhodes Trust has also announced the creation of a number of new scholarships for Africa, South-East Asia, Israel and the Middle East – increasing the number of Rhodes Scholars studying at Oxford at any one time to approximately 250.
Thanks to the generosity of a number of benefactors, top graduate students from across the world will be given the opportunity to fulfil their academic potential at Oxford, regardless of their financial circumstances.
'Our aspiration is to select innovative, energetic and ethical young leaders globally,' explained Charles Conn, Warden of Rhodes House. 'The addition of these new Scholars from regions that have an important international role to play in the 21st century marks a substantial step in that direction.'
The expansion into these regions marks a historic moment for the Rhodes Trust, and further strengthens the opportunity for broader global collaboration and understanding.