Shinnyo Fellowship Program

A school-year long fellowship program for undergraduate and post-undergraduate fellows to engage in campus and community service, and peacebuilding endeavors as they identify and actualize their paths to peace. Program was reshaped in late 2025 to appoint a single "Shinnyo Pathways Fellow" in partnership with community colleges and universities.

Current Partner Institution (2025-2026): Berkeley City College (BCC), Berkeley, California

Program Evolution:

• Previous Structure (nearly 10 years): Full-time post-undergraduate fellows with five university partners and one community organization
• New Structure (2025-2026 and beyond): Single "Shinnyo Pathways Fellow" focusing on partnership with community colleges to reach more diverse and under-resourced students

Current Fellow (2025-2026): Sofia Jacob (inaugural Shinnyo Pathways Fellow)

Eligibility:

• Undergraduate or post-undergraduate students
• Students of Shinnyo Fellowship Program partner universities/institutions
• (New): Community college students at BCC

Focus Areas:

• Campus and community service
• Peacebuilding
• Leadership development
• Identifying and actualizing personal paths to peace
• Academic coaching and counseling (at community college level)
• Program development
• Transfer student support
• Community building

Support Provided:

• Fellowship stipend/funding
• Supervision and guidance from experienced mentors
• Service placement opportunities
• Professional development

Partner Selection Rationale:

• Berkeley City College chosen for:
  • Strong familiarity with foundation values and principles
  • Deep understanding of foundation's work
  • Previous experience as placement site for Shinnyo Fellows from UC Berkeley's Public Service Center
  • Trusted and experienced partner
  • Serves diverse and under-resourced student populations