GovWire

Following a competitive application process, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Alice Prochaska as a new member of the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission (MACC) with effect from 1 October.

Dr Prochaska fills a vacant post on the Commission. She recently stepped down as Principal of Somerville College Oxford and brings many years experience of UK higher education to the role. Amongst the many public positions she holds are Chair of the Sir Winston Churchill Archive Trust and Chair of the Institute of Historical Research Trust (University of London).

Commenting on the appointment the Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson MP said:

The Marshall Scholarship scheme is widely considered one of the most prestigious scholarships for US citizens to study in the UK. As future leaders, with a lasting understanding of British society, Marshall scholars strengthen the enduring special relationship between our 2 countries.

Marshall alumni go on to become prominent leaders in their chosen field. To date they include the CEO of LinkedIn, Supreme Court Justices, Members of the US Congress and Presidential Cabinet, the managing editors of TIME and CNN and even an astronaut. These alumni serve as a symbol of the success of the Marshall scheme.

I welcome Dr Prochaska as a Commission member, who I am certain will ensure that the vital contribution made by the Marshall Scholarship scheme to our special relationship continues for many years to come.

MACC Chairman Christopher Fisher added:

I am delighted that we have been able to attract such a high calibre individual to become a new Marshall Commissioner. The Marshall Scholarship programme has a fantastic track record in maintaining and renewing strong Anglo-American ties. The Commission is fully committed to sustaining the scale, quality and vitality of this programme.

Background

The Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission administers the British Marshall Scholarship scheme, which finances young Americans of high ability to study for a graduate degree in the UK.

Up to 40 scholars are selected each year to study at graduate level at a UK institution in any field of study. As future leaders, with a lasting understanding of British society, Marshall Scholars strengthen the enduring relationship between the British and American peoples, their governments and their institutions. Commissioners serve for a term of 3 years, with the possibility of re-appointment for a second term. The appointment is unpaid.

You can read more about the Commissioners on the Marshall Scholarship site.

Further information

• Follow the Foreign Office on Twitter @foreignoffice
• Follow the Foreign Office on Facebook and Google+
• Follow Marshall scholars on Twitter @MarshallScholar

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