Through coursework and field work, the ACED Fellows Program at Illinois State University enhances the skills of experienced students working to become the new generation of development specialists.
Our distinctive program requires ACED Fellows to have at least one year of full-time experience in community development or social services or the equivalent (1,700 hours)—as either a paid professional or a volunteer—prior to starting classes. Service with AmeriCorps programs like City Year and Teach For America counts towards this requirement. Compulsory (e.g., government-mandated) service is not sufficient.
Fellows complete one calendar year of full-time coursework and 11 months of hands-on professional practice with communities or organizations needing the skills and expertise our students possess.
Stevenson Center alumni go on to work in a wide variety of leadership roles in nonprofits and in local, state, and federal government. The combination of training, research, and hands-on experience positions our students to be uniquely competitive in the job market.
See students' research and our latest news, then connect with an Alumni Ambassador!
Tune in to our student-produced podcasts to hear more about what it's like to join the Stevenson Center and complete a professional internship, and then follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube