Dear National Urban Fellows and Friends:

I am excited to share the news of the recent selection of the Class of 2009.

Our 41 new Fellows represent a diverse and talented group of mid-career women and men from around the country. These accomplished individuals will begin a journey that will prepare them to lead government and nonprofit organizations and allow them to play an important role in shaping the future of our nation, thereby assuring ongoing leadership diversity.

The current national election has introduced new hope and a larger national awareness for both change and leadership diversity. We as a nation finally recognize that leadership must be inclusive. Each evening as we tune-in to watch the news coverage of the historical race for the presidency, with the first-time-ever participation of a white woman and an African-American man, we should take pride in knowing that for nearly 40 years National Urban Fellows has been an advocate for change and a more inclusive America. For nearly 40 years National Urban Fellows has made it possible for women and people of color to take on leadership positions in the government sector. We have been preparing leaders for this very moment.

As we support the larger changes taking place in our nation and welcome the Class of 2009, National Urban Fellows looks forward to the year ahead and our vital work that prepares leadership for a changing America.

Thank you for joining our mission, and all the best.

Paula Gavin