For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, September 14, 2005

WASHINGTON D.C - U.S. Representative Dan Boren announced today that he will join the new two-year class of the Aspen-Rodel Fellowships in Public Leadership, a distinguished national leadership program for young public officials.

 

Following an eight-month search involving input from more than 1,400 business, political, and civic leaders, Boren was selected for the new program honoring leaders identified by the Institute as "the true rising stars" of American politics.  The 24 fellows, drawn from federal, state, and local governments, comprises “the very best of the nation's emerging leaders to discuss broad issues of democratic governance and effective public service,” according to the Institute.

“I’m honored to be selected for this program,” Boren said.  “I look forward to the opportunity to meet and join other leaders from across our nation to talk about questions of public leadership and values,” Boren said. 

“It’s important that today’s young leaders are committed to promoting thoughtful and bipartisan dialogue in government.  I’m pleased to take part in a national leadership program that focuses on getting past narrow partisanship and bringing civil cooperation to the forefront of public service,” Boren said.   

Former Oklahoma Congressman Mickey Edwards heads the Institute’s program. “In a short time, Dan Boren has established a reputation for intelligence, thoughtfulness, and an ability to work effectively across party lines.  We believe he represents the next generation of America’s political leaders and we are proud to have his participation in our program,” Edwards said.

All those selected by the institute fall between the approximate ages of 25-45.  To name a few, Boren will join Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan; Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz; Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele; Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning; and, Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan.

In a joint statement, Aspen Institute President Walter Isaacson and Rodel Foundation spokesman William D. Budinger described the new program as “a serious effort to bring together, in one place, without partisan considerations, the brightest, most thoughtful, and most promising of America's young leaders.”

####