University of San Francisco Announces $1 Million Gift from Craig Newmark to Support Student Veterans Pursuing Careers in Public Service
Craig Newmark's gift will continue to support veterans and military families enrolled in the new Master of Arts in Public Leadership program
SAN FRANCISCO (July 9, 2019) – The University of San Francisco (USF) has received a $1 million gift from Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies, to continue his support of student veterans seeking to further their education and service through the university's Master of Arts in Public Leadership (MAPL) program. The MAPL program is specifically designed for veterans and their families who wish to pursue a career in public service or elective office.
"Veterans are often ready to serve again and that means public service in different forms," Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies said. "Veterans are committed, smart, and able to handle difficult situations. I'm committed to programs like University of San Francisco's Master of Arts in Public Leadership that supports them."
A longtime champion of veterans' causes, Newmark gave $200,000 to launch the MAPL program at USF in 2018. He has also previously given to support other initiatives at USF including Women in Tech.
Since its launch, the MAPL program has recruited students from all five military branches and both sides of the political aisle, including some who are already running for office in various capacities within their communities. The program is a partnership between USF and Veterans Campaign, a nonpartisan organization that trains veteran leaders from both sides of the aisle.
"We are focused on continuously finding the right mix of folks, regardless of political affiliation, who are driven and have great character, who have leadership skills, who want to keep serving and have demonstrated commitment to public service," said Seth Lynn, administrative director of the MAPL program. "I think very few disagree with the notion that we could do better if we had more selfless, strong leaders who put the country before themselves."
The hybrid curriculum combines online learning with five intensive weekend seminars to provide students with the skills they need to succeed in public office, legislative affairs, campaign management, advocacy, and civic leadership.
About the University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco is located in the heart of one of the world's most innovative and diverse cities and is home to a vibrant academic community of students and faculty who achieve excellence in their fields. Its diverse student body enjoys direct access to faculty, small classes, and outstanding opportunities in the city itself. USF is San Francisco's first university, and its Jesuit Catholic mission helps ignite a student's passion for social justice and a desire to "Change the World From Here." The Campaign for the University of San Francisco is raising $300 million through 2022 to support student scholarships and financial aid, the creation of bold and innovative programs, and the renovation of current facilities and construction of new space, all part of expanding the university's global influence. For more information, visit usfca.edu/campaign.
About Craig Newmark Philanthropies
Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support, connect, and drive powerful civic engagement. The organization works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans and military families.
About Veterans Campaign
Veterans Campaign, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the only non-partisan, non-ideological organization whose mission is to encourage, mentor and prepare veterans for a "second service" in civic leadership. It is an educational organization, teaching veterans and transitioning service members about civic and political leadership. Veterans Campaign's goal is to demystify the process of running for office, and make it accessible to veterans who are interested in continuing their service as elected officials.