The White House Announces National Finalists for the 2005-2006 Class of White House Fellows

WASHINGTON, May 2, 2005 -- The White House today announced that thirty-one outstanding individuals from across the country have been selected as National Finalists for the 2005-2006 White House Fellows Program  one of the Nations most prestigious programs for leadership and public service. The National Finalists represent a diverse cross-section of professions, including business, medicine, law, non-profit, finance, management consulting, science, and education. Additionally, five branches of the military are represented among the National Finalists. A complete list of the National Finalists appears below.

The White House Fellows Program, founded in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, offers exceptional young men and women first-hand experience working at the highest levels of the Federal government. Fellowsparticipate in an education program consisting of roundtable discussions with leaders from the private and public sectors, and trips to study U.S. policy in action. Following the Fellowship year, Fellows are expected to repay the privilege by contributing to the Nation as better leaders and public servants.

Selection as a White House Fellow is highly competitive and based on a record of remarkable professional achievement, evidence of leadership skills, a strong commitment to public service, and the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute successfully at the highest levels of the Federal government. The program has fostered leaders in many fields, including Former Secretary of State Colin Powell; Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao; Former CNN President Tom Johnson; American Red Cross President Marsha Evans; United Nations Foundation President and Former