Spelman College student Clare Harvey, C’2026, was recently announced as an Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholar. Created by former President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO, the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship provides essential tools and resources to help students launch their careers in public service.
Harvey and 99 other students were selected as part of the third cohort of scholars who plan to pursue a career in public service. To be considered for the two-year program, Harvey demonstrated a notable interest in public health and a dedication to addressing global challenges in communities around the world.
“When Michelle, Brian and I launched the Voyager Scholarship in 2022, we were excited to see what young people with a passion for public service could do when given the right support,” said President Obama. “The past two cohorts have shown tremendous passion, curiosity, and collaboration – all while working hard across their college campuses. Today, as we welcome our third cohort of Voyagers, I’m more hopeful than ever that our future is in good hands.”
The program offers a transformative, comprehensive support package that includes financial aid, an immersive work-travel experience and access to a strong network of Obama Foundation leaders and mentors. The last cohort of Voyagers had the opportunity to explore 63 countries and 23 U.S. states and territories. The new class will have multiple opportunities to connect with past cohorts, sharing insights and building relationships.
“During my time as an Obama-Chesky Voyager for public service, I intend to study the impact of environmental racism on minority communities and more specifically, the insertions between environmental and social justice issues,” said Harvey, a sociology major. “My experiences with social activism at Spelman, specifically this past summer working with Dr. Rosetta Ross on the ‘Mothers of the Movement’ research project, has encouraged me to continue to be an advocate for social justice issues impacting minority communities such as my own. I look forward to using my platform as a Voyager to make significant positive social change in our world.”
In addition to their independent travels and personalized career coaching, Voyagers meet virtually each month to share insights, discuss challenges, and foster relationships both at home and abroad.
Explore more information about the The Voyager Scholarship.